Indian cricket’s two biggest icons — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli — have been asked by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) to participate in domestic one-day tournaments if they want to continue playing for India in ODIs.
This move marks a clear message from the board: even senior players must prove their match fitness and maintain game-time rhythm through domestic cricket.
BCCI’s Directive: ‘Play Domestic Cricket to Play for India’
According to board sources, the BCCI and team management have conveyed that since both Rohit and Kohli have retired from Tests and T20Is, they must remain active in the domestic circuit to stay prepared for India’s ODI assignments.
“They have to play domestic cricket if they want to play for India. As they have retired from two formats, this is necessary to stay match-fit,” said a senior board official.
The directive aligns with the policy emphasized earlier by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who stated that all available players — regardless of seniority — should play domestic matches to stay in rhythm.
Read more: Rohit Sharma Record List: Top 10 Achievements
Rohit Sharma Confirms Availability for Vijay Hazare Trophy
Mumbai Cricket Association Confirms Rohit’s Return
Rohit Sharma has officially informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will be available to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, India’s premier 50-over domestic tournament starting December 24, 2025.
Rohit has even expressed his willingness to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) T20 tournament starting November 26, though that will depend on India’s upcoming ODI series against South Africa beginning November 30 in Ranchi.
| Tournament | Format | Start Date | Rohit’s Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) | T20 | Nov 26, 2025 | Likely, if schedule permits |
| Vijay Hazare Trophy | One-Day | Dec 24, 2025 | Confirmed by MCA |
Virat Kohli Yet to Confirm His Participation
While Rohit has agreed to play, Virat Kohli has not yet confirmed his participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Kohli, who currently resides in London, has been away from Indian domestic tournaments for many years. His last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was way back in February 2010, when he captained Delhi against Services.
The BCCI, however, is reportedly keen to see Kohli return to domestic cricket soon to assess his form and readiness ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle.
| Player | Last Domestic One-Day Appearance | Team | Status for 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 2023-24 (Ranji & SMAT appearances) | Mumbai | Confirmed |
| Virat Kohli | 2010 (Vijay Hazare for Delhi) | Delhi | Yet to Confirm |
Why BCCI Took This Decision
With both Kohli (37) and Rohit (38) having stepped away from two formats, the BCCI wants them to stay in competitive shape for ODIs — the only format they continue to represent India in.
The board believes domestic one-day cricket is the best platform for players to:
- Maintain match fitness during long international breaks.
- Stay connected with India’s younger domestic talent.
- Prepare for future international ODI commitments.
This directive also reflects the BCCI’s consistent policy that no player, regardless of stature, is above the domestic system.
Like to know? Rohit Sharma Captaincy Record
Recent Performances and Context
Both Rohit and Kohli last featured in India’s three-match ODI series in Australia (October 2025).
| Series | Result | Rohit Sharma | Virat Kohli |
|---|---|---|---|
| India vs Australia (ODIs, 2025) | India won 2-1 | Century in 3rd ODI, Player of the Series | 87* in final match after two ducks |
Their performances reaffirmed their value to the national side. However, with a busy domestic and international schedule ahead, the BCCI wants them to maintain form through regular match practice.
Possible Impact on India’s ODI Plans
The Vijay Hazare Trophy falls between two crucial ODI series — India vs South Africa (Dec 3–9, 2025) and India vs New Zealand (Jan 11–18, 2026).
By participating in domestic cricket, Rohit will not only sharpen his rhythm but also send a strong message of commitment to the domestic structure — a move that could inspire other senior players to follow suit.
Meanwhile, Kohli’s decision is awaited, and his participation could further boost Delhi’s domestic squad and fan engagement.
Selectors’ Standpoint
Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar recently emphasized:
“Whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. That’s the only way to stay sharp and ready for national duty.”
This aligns perfectly with BCCI’s renewed focus on domestic accountability before major international tournaments like the Champions Trophy 2025 and ODI World Cup 2027.
Like to know? Rohit Sharma Yo-Yo Test Score 2025:
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 marks a significant step for Indian cricket, showcasing senior players’ willingness to strengthen domestic competitions.
While Rohit’s commitment has already been confirmed, all eyes are now on Virat Kohli — whose decision will determine whether both modern legends will once again share the field on the domestic stage.
Either way, the BCCI’s message is crystal clear:
To play for India, every player must first play for their state.
