Kohli, Rohit’s ODI Future and Agarkar’s Decision Hinge on India A Games, not Vijay Hazare Trophy

Amidst speculation on the One Day International (ODI) future of Indian cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, there are reports that ‘some in BCCI’ are prioritising India A games over the Vijay Hazare Trophy for the cricketers. The future of the two players came into question following the conclusion of the tour of England and a gap in international cricket for India until the Asia Cup next month in the UAE.

It was suggested that the two players need to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to extend their ODI career and possibly be selected for the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, recent reports from PTI indicate a conflicting view within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which favours their participation in India A matches more.

After announcing their retirement from Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and Tests in June and May 2025 respectively, Kohli and Rohit are now only active in ODI format. Their next ODI assignment will be against Australia in October. Some members of the BCCI reportedly want the pair to prepare for the tour by participating in India A matches at home during the Australia A team’s visit.

Given the overlapping international schedule, both players won’t likely participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. They’re expected to play six ODIs against Australia and South Africa before the domestic tournament begins. Furthermore, they might play three ODIs against New Zealand, which will clash with the Vijay Hazare Trophy schedule.

A BCCI source pointed out the final decision would be up to the BCCI selection committee. They questioned whether the duo would want to participate in India A matches, or whether Ajit Agarkar and his colleagues would want the same.