Big News!! Kohli & Rohit Accept Agarkar's Challenge to Prove Themselves in Domestic Cricket - reports
Indian Cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have agreed to the terms of Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. This condition comes when both players are willing to participate in the 2027 World Cup, but they have already retired from Test and T20I cricket.
In the latest report from PTI, Ajit Agarkar has highlighted the importance of domestic cricket for centrally contracted players. He reportedly communicated to Kohli and Rohit that playing domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy or India A matches is essential to remain in the national plans.
Why Domestic Cricket?
Kohli and Rohit have stepped away from Test and T20 International formats but continue to play ODIs for India. However, a very less number of ODIs are scheduled to be played, therefore, it raises concerns about consistent performance and opportunities for the young players.
While age and performance will still be determining factors, consistent performances in domestic tournaments will show selectors and fans their seriousness to contribute at the highest level.
Expert Opinions
Ravichandran Ashwin also supported the decision of Ajit Agarkar, urging Kohli and Rohit to prove their commitment and form through domestic cricket participation. According to Ashwin, playing domestic cricket offers them rhythm and ensures they remain match-ready, and it's a crucial factor to be a part of the World Cup Squad.
Sourav Ganguly has advised both the star players to participate in domestic cricket, which will not only help the team but also their own performance. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are sincerely looking to play for the Indian team in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2027, and all these commitments are just for that last tournament.
Virat and Kohli are part of India’s ODI squad for the Australia series; both players are returning to international cricket after a long time. This series will be very crucial for them to remain in contention for a spot in the ODI squad. The India vs Australia ODI series will start from October 19, 2025.
The Upcoming Edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy is set to start from December 24, 2025, and continue until January 18, 2025. Rohit and Kohli are expected to play at least three rounds in this tournament.
Last time, Virat Kohli played a List A match in 2010 for Delhi, whereas Rohit Sharma made his last appearance for Mumbai in 2018. However, both players have exceptional ODI records, and they have been in great touch in recent years, so the chances are very high that we will see the duo in the 2027 World Cup.
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