"There might be a messy end for Ajit Agarkar" - Former England pacer makes stunning prediction ahead of India's tour of Australia

Published - 08 Oct 2025, 18:15 IST | Updated - 08 Oct 2025, 18:40 IST

One of the biggest speculations in the sporting world nowadays revolves around Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket. Last week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named the ODI squad for the three-match series against Australia, starting on October 19. One of the biggest talking points from the announcement was Rohit Sharma's sacking as captain of the side. He was replaced by Shubman Gill.

While Rohit and Kohli were picked in the side as specialist batters, there seems to be no assurance regarding their spots, especially with the main focus being the 2027 ODI World Cup. Many believe that the tour of Australia could be the swansong of Rohit and Kohli as far as international cricket is concerned.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has clearly stated that players, when fit and available, will have to play domestic cricket to stay in contention for selection. Former England cricketer Steve Harmison, however, feels that Agarkar could have a rough ending waiting for him if he tries to push the veteran batters too much. However, Harmison feels that if the former India speedster mentioned playing in domestic cricket to fuel the fire in the two former captains, then it was a fair move on his part.

"Unfortunately I think there might be a messy end for Ajit Agarkar there. If anybody is going to win here I think it is the former captains rather than the former all-rounder. But it all depends on, if Agarkar is saying this, just to fuel the fire of Kohli and Sharma, then fair enough. You put your cards on the table and see what comes," he said on talkSPORT Cricket.

Harmison stated that Rohit hasn't been as influential a player in ODI cricket as Kohli. The cricketer-turned-expert also mentioned that Rohit is a bit older than Kohli. According to Harmison, India could struggle in run-chases if they go to the 2027 World Cup sans the Delhi batter.

Manoj Tiwary slams selectors for removing Rohit as captain

"I think Kohli has got a little bit of skin in the game. Runs in the bank, his reputation. Sharma, not as much. Sharma's a little bit older. He's not been as influential in 50-over cricket as Virat has. If Virat turns around and says, "All right, you go to the 50-over World Cup without me and leading up to it, let's see when you're chasing 350 in 50 overs to win against Australia or England, and you haven't got that bloke who averages 90 winning games at number four, see where your teams at". There could be a messy end in that way. There could also be words that have been misunderstood in translation," he added.