India’s ODI captain, Shubman Gill, has discussed the potential participation of experienced batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. While formal talks have not yet occurred, decisions are anticipated post India’s upcoming three-match home ODI series against South Africa. In a recent match, Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 121 not out, and Virat Kohli added a steady 74 not out as India comfortably chased down Australia’s 236-run target with almost 11 overs to spare.
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli now focus solely on one format after retiring from Tests and T20Is, sparking intense speculation about their future. The duo is set to play in the three-match ODI series against South Africa, commencing on November 30. Following this, the Vijay Hazare Trophy will kick off on December 24, before India hosts New Zealand for a three-match ODI series from January 11 to 18.
Gill stated to reporters, “There has been no conversation regarding this yet. There isn’t much time between the South Africa series and the New Zealand series. We will have discussions after the South Africa series.”
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar hinted at the possibility of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, emphasizing the importance of players engaging in domestic cricket. Earlier, the duo had chosen not to partake in the three-match India A series against Australia A before their tour Down Under.
Despite their strong performances in the third ODI against Australia, questions linger about Rohit and Virat’s readiness for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The pair shared an unbeaten partnership of 168 runs in Sydney, but their form showed signs of rust. With retirement from Tests and T20Is, both players recognize the necessity for more competitive cricket. Speculation is rife about their potential involvement in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy in December 2025.