Senior Indian batter Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have made a big stride towards remaining in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup by opting to play in the next Vijay Hazare Trophy. According to a report by PTI, both players are likely to play at least three, and possibly four matches, before India’s home ODI series against New Zealand starts next January.
This action follows closely behind chief selector Ajit Agarkar, during the press conference announcement for the Australia ODI tour team, stressing the significance of their participation in domestic cricket if they wanted to stay in the running for upcoming international assignments. Agarkar had surprisingly abstained from confirming their spot in the 2027 World Cup plans and instead indicated that inclusion in the domestic List A competition would play a pivotal role in determining their commitment and form.
“I think we made it clear a year, or a couple of years back, now, that whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. I mean, that’s the only way you’ll keep yourself sharp and playing cricket, if you’ve got a long enough break. Whether that’s possible with the international cricket you’re playing or not, that only time will tell, but if the guys are free, they should be playing domestic cricket.”
In response, Kohli and Rohit have reportedly agreed to make themselves available for a minimum of three fixtures in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which kicks off on December 24. With six rounds of matches lined up for Delhi (Kohli’s team) and Mumbai (Rohit’s side) during the window between the South Africa and New Zealand ODI series, the selectors expect both veterans to take part.
“The Vijay Hazare Trophy starts on December 24. There will be six rounds of games for Mumbai (December 24, 26, 29, 31, Jan 3, 6, 8). Rohit will be expected to at least play three rounds before linking up with the squad. Ditto for Virat,” a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
Kohli has not turned out for the Vijay Hazare Trophy since 2010, when he could only score 16 runs at No. 5 for Delhi against Services. Rohit, now not India’s ODI skipper, last turned out for the tournament in 2018 when he scored 24 for Mumbai in the semi-final match against Hyderabad.
