Ajit Agarkar ends speculation on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI careers; reveals World Cup plan

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Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has finally addressed the growing speculation around Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI futures, as both senior pros make their much-awaited return to India’s squad for the Australia tour beginning October 19. Their selection will mark their first international appearance since India’s Champions Trophy triumph earlier this year.

Right after India’s Test series in England, reports emerged claiming that Rohit and Kohli, who both retired from Test cricket earlier this year, would play their final international series in Australia. The speculation stemmed from suggestions that BCCI wanted senior players to focus on domestic tournaments if they wished to remain in contention for future ODI selections. Addressing these rumours, Agarkar clarified his stance during the squad announcement for the ODI and T20I series in Australia.

He admitted he had no knowledge of whether the Australia tour would be their last in India colours. “That’s the format they are playing at the moment. We’ve picked them [for Australia]… as far as the 2027 World Cup is concerned, I don’t think we need to talk about it today. You don’t have to think too far at this point; the team is picked for Australia, and we just need them to score runs like they have been through their careers,” Agarkar was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times.

Agarkar’s non-committal response suggested that the selection committee is adopting a performance-first policy for veterans. With India entering a transition phase under new leadership structures, both Rohit and Kohli’s roles may evolve depending on their form and commitment to the ODI format.

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While Agarkar avoided making any definitive statement about their World Cup participation, he indirectly outlined the path that could secure their places in the ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa. The chief selector emphasized the importance of domestic cricket as a proving ground for all players, irrespective of seniority. “I think we made it clear a year or a couple of years back that whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. That’s the only way you’ll keep yourself sharp and match-ready, especially if you’ve had a long break.” the chief selector stated.

He added that participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier 50-over domestic competition, could play a major role in selection decisions. “Whether that’s possible with the international schedule or not, only time will tell. But if the guys are free, they should be playing domestic cricket,” Agarkar concluded.

Agarkar’s comments subtly reinforced the idea that experience alone may no longer secure automatic selection. The BCCI seems intent on ensuring a level playing field, where performance and participation, not reputation, dictate inclusion in India’s future white-ball squads.

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