In a move signalling the end of preferential treatment for India’s senior cricketers, the BCCI has made it clear to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: domestic cricket is now compulsory for retaining a place in the national side. Following their retirement from Tests and T20Is, both players had been focused solely on ODIs, but even this privilege is no longer guaranteed.
Sources reveal that the BCCI is taking this step to ensure that players do not lose touch with competitive cricket. Participation in domestic tournaments such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy will allow the national selectors and team management to monitor fitness and form, particularly for those who have stepped back from international formats.
Rohit Sharma has reportedly already confirmed his participation with Mumbai in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy match scheduled for 24 December, which falls neatly between India’s ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand. Kohli, however, remains undecided, spending time in London, although officials are optimistic he will return soon.
On recent tours, both players displayed contrasting fortunes. Rohit was in fine form, hitting a century in the final ODI against Australia, while Kohli endured a difficult series before bouncing back with an unbeaten 87. Both now face the challenge of proving that they remain indispensable to India’s ODI setup.
An insider remarked, “No one is exempt from domestic cricket, not even legends. The message is clear: to represent India, you must first demonstrate your fitness and form at home.” This new directive may also see the end of sporadic appearances by these stars in domestic tournaments, as both have previously played for Delhi and Mumbai after long gaps.
With the next ODI World Cup cycle already underway, Kohli and Rohit’s domestic performance will be closely scrutinised by fans and selectors alike. The Vijay Hazare Trophy is shaping up to be more than just a tournament; it will be the testing ground for the survival of two of Indian cricket’s greatest icons in the national team.