Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli: A Comeback Story in Indian Cricket

BCCI Chief Selector's Remarks Spark Discussion

In October 2025, Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), made comments regarding star Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli that ignited conversations when the ODI squad for the series against Australia was revealed. Both players were included in the lineup, yet they expressed uncertainty about their involvement in the 2027 ODI World Cup. With both having already stepped back from T20Is and Tests, concerns arose about how the 38-year-old Rohit and nearly 37-year-old Kohli would maintain their motivation and fitness after extended breaks from the game. The Australia series marked a significant gap, as it had been seven months since either player last participated in international matches, and nearly four months since they engaged in any professional cricket. Observations grew when Kohli faced difficulties in the initial two ODIs, while Rohit appeared hesitant. Their timing seemed off, and signs of rust were evident, leading to speculation about their readiness for the upcoming World Cup.

A Return to Form

The narrative shifted during the third ODI of the Australia vs India series. Although India had already lost the series, the return of Rohit and Kohli to the crease together felt nostalgic. Their performance reignited hope among critics, as noted by Wisden. Kohli showcased his classic style against South Africa, displaying impeccable footwork, timing, and swift running. Rohit soon regained his form, concluding the series with a solid fifty.

Demonstrating Commitment in Domestic Cricket

Simultaneously, discussions emerged regarding the participation of Rohit and Kohli in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. A new regulation mandated that centrally contracted players must engage in domestic cricket to remain eligible for national selection, placing the spotlight on their decisions. The pivotal question was whether they would commit to domestic play or opt for further time off. On December 24, both players took the field for their respective VHT teams, each scoring centuries—Kohli with 131 runs off 101 balls and Rohit with 155 runs off 94 balls. Their performances were not solely about the runs; they symbolized a commitment to the game. Kohli had not participated in the tournament since the 2009-10 season, while Rohit last played in 2017-18. Despite their extensive experience, they seem more focused than ever. Their runs are significant, but their passion, determination, and resilience are what truly matter. They remain a formidable presence in Indian cricket.