The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continues to be a topic of discussion in international cricket. Both the senior players have already retired from Tests and T20Is and are currently playing only the 50-over format.
The former captain has been looking in great form in recent times. A few weeks ago, Rohit Sharma was named Player of the Series for his brilliant batting performance against Australia, before which Virat Kohli had received the same award in the recently concluded three-match series against South Africa.
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Virat Kohli scored two centuries and an unbeaten half-century against the Proteas, while Rohit Sharma scored two half-centuries as India won the series 2–1. Even though both the legendary batsmen have been looking in great form in the last two series, there are still question marks over their future.
Amidst all the speculations, a rumor said that BCCI is forcing both of them to play in this season’s Vijay Hazare Trophy. A few months ago, the BCCI had made it mandatory for centrally contracted players to participate in domestic cricket when they are not part of any international series.
‘Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli have decided’
However, a BCCI official put an end to these rumors and said that the board had not forced Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play in the domestic tournament. RevSportz reported that when the BCCI official was asked whether the board had encouraged the two seniors to play some domestic matches, they shook their heads.
“They have taken the decision, it is their decision,” The officer said in his response.
Meanwhile, Kohli has already confirmed his participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy by informing the Delhi and District Cricket Association. DDCA President Rohan Jaitley recently confirmed that the former India captain will play in the tournament. On the other hand, Rohit is also expected to represent Mumbai in the same competition.
Gautam Gambhir on the future of Rohit and Kohli:
Even though both Rohit and Kohli have performed well in the last two series, head coach Gautam Gambhir has not made any clear statement on their future. He has maintained silence on whether Rohit and Kohli will play the next ODI World Cup in 2027 or not.
“They are world-class players and their experience in the dressing room is important. They have been doing this for a long time. Hopefully, they continue to do that, which will be important in the 50-over format.” Gambhir said.
“First of all you have to realize that the ODI World Cup is two years away. It’s important to stay in the present, and the young boys coming into the set-up take their opportunities.” He added.