Rohit-Kohli Farewell Match: What a BCCI Official Had to Say

Virat Kohli continues to ignite the field with the bat whenever opportunity arises, while Rohit Sharma too has not slipped into poor form. Yet, the twilight of the two Indian cricket icons’ international careers has been shadowed by a swirl of speculation and debate. Both are now limited to One Day Internationals as their only remaining format, and rumours have intensified in recent weeks that they may soon announce their retirement from ODIs as well.

This very question was raised to Rajeev Shukla, Vice-President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), regarding the possibility of a farewell match being organised for Rohit and Kohli. Shukla, however, appeared irked by the constant chatter. Speaking at the UP T20 League during an interview, the senior BCCI official remarked: “They have not retired, have they? Both Rohit and Kohli are still playing ODIs. If they have not stepped away, why are people already discussing their farewell?”

When asked further, Shukla clarified: “They have retired from two formats, and that is a natural step. But they are still playing One Day Internationals. There is nothing to worry about. The BCCI’s policy is very clear — we do not ask anyone to retire. Players take their own decisions, and we respect that.”

Despite this explanation, the anchor pressed again, echoing fans’ requests for a special farewell fixture for the two stalwarts. Shukla responded with a smile: “Let’s see when the time comes. You all seem to be preparing their farewell in advance! Virat Kohli is extremely fit, and Rohit Sharma is also playing brilliantly. So why worry so much about their farewell?

Career Timeline of Kohli and Rohit in Recent Years

Developments

• June 2024: Both Kohli and Rohit retired from T20 Internationals following India’s T20 World Cup triumph.
• May 2024: Within days of each other, both players retired from Test cricket. Kohli’s decision came suddenly, just before India’s England series, which had fuelled speculation about captaincy. Eventually, Shubman Gill was appointed Test captain.
• Champions Trophy 2025: Their most recent international outing came in this tournament, where India defeated New Zealand in the final to clinch the title.
• Post-IPL 2025 Gap: India have not played an ODI since the 2025 IPL, leaving their ODI future uncertain.
• 2027 World Cup Speculation: Reports suggest the BCCI may encourage both veterans to feature in the domestic Vijay Hazare Trophy as preparation if they are to play in the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

At present, Kohli and Rohit remain active in ODIs. Any talk of farewell matches, as Shukla made clear, is premature. Whether the duo will extend their glittering careers into the 2027 World Cup or bow out earlier is a question only time will answer.