No Exceptions Anymore! BCCI Warns Kohli and Rohit: “Play Domestic or Lose Your Place”

After stepping away from Tests and T20Is, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma now only feature in ODI cricket. However, even their places in the 50-over format are reportedly no longer secure. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear — to remain in contention for the national team, both senior players must return to domestic cricket.

According to The Indian Express, this directive forms part of the BCCI’s new approach to ensure players maintain match fitness and form consistency. The board believes regular domestic participation will help bridge the gap between international commitments.

The BCCI’s New Rule Explained

A senior BCCI official told The Indian Express:

“The board and team management have informed both players that if they want to continue in the ODI setup, they must participate in domestic tournaments. Since they have retired from two formats, domestic cricket will be crucial for their match fitness.”

The first step under this new policy could be the Vijay Hazare Trophy match scheduled for 24 December, where both stars are expected to feature.

Upcoming Fixtures

The Vijay Hazare Trophy, held between India’s series against South Africa and New Zealand, is expected to serve as a crucial assessment platform for both veterans.

Rohit Ready, Kohli Yet to Confirm

Reports suggest that Rohit Sharma has already informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of his readiness to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Meanwhile, Kohli’s participation remains uncertain as he continues to spend time in London.

BCCI officials are optimistic that Kohli will also make his domestic return soon, ensuring both senior players remain “match sharp” ahead of the upcoming ODI season.

Their Recent Form

On India’s recent tour of Australia, Rohit was outstanding — scoring a century in the final ODI. Kohli, after scoring two consecutive ducks, bounced back with an unbeaten 87 in the third match.

Rohit is also likely to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy starting 26 November, as part of his ongoing training at the Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy in Mumbai.

A Return to Domestic Roots

Both players have made sporadic domestic appearances in recent years. In the last Ranji Trophy season, Kohli played for Delhi after a 12-year gap, while Rohit returned for Mumbai after nearly a decade.

The BCCI’s latest directive may signal the end of “special treatment” for India’s senior-most cricketers. As one insider put it:

“It doesn’t matter who you are — if you want to play for India, you must prove yourself on the domestic circuit first.”

With the next ODI World Cup cycle already in motion, all eyes are now on one big question — will Kohli and Rohit accept the challenge and return to where it all began?

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