India’s batting giants, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have agreed to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, following a recommendation by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. This move is aimed at ensuring both stalwarts remain match-ready and stay in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kohli and Rohit Eyeing 2027 World Cup
As part of their preparations for the next ODI World Cup, both Kohli and Rohit have accepted Agarkar’s suggestion to participate in domestic tournaments, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy. With their last international appearances coming during the Champions Trophy earlier in 2025, the two veteran players have been absent from competitive cricket since the IPL 2025.
At the time of the next World Cup in 2027, Kohli will be 39, while Rohit will be 40. However, both players remain integral parts of the Indian team, and their involvement in domestic competitions like the Vijay Hazare Trophy will help keep them match-fit and sharpen their skills for the challenges ahead.
Shubman Gill Named ODI Captain as Transition Begins
While Kohli and Rohit are still included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia, a significant change has already taken place within the team. Shubman Gill has been named the new ODI captain, taking over from Rohit Sharma. This move signals the team management’s efforts to gradually transition to a new leadership structure as the next World Cup approaches.
With this transition, the Indian team is preparing for the future, and the inclusion of Kohli and Rohit in domestic tournaments is seen as part of their efforts to stay competitive and remain an option for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Domestic Cricket and Vijay Hazare Trophy Schedule
The next edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy will begin on December 24 and run through January 18, 2026. After the ODI series against Australia, India will face South Africa in a three-match series from November 30 to December 6, followed by a three-match ODI series against New Zealand from January 11 to 18.
This gap allows ample time for Kohli and Rohit to participate in the domestic tournament. Both players are expected to play for their respective states—Delhi and Mumbai—during the early rounds of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Rohit Sharma will be available for at least three rounds of the competition, and similarly, Virat Kohli will also feature in a few matches.
Will Kohli and Rohit Play Multiple Matches?
While it is unlikely that either player will feature in the full group-stage of the tournament, they will have enough time to play a few matches before rejoining the national team for the New Zealand series. The gap between the South Africa and New Zealand series gives them the opportunity to participate in up to five matches.
For Kohli, his last appearance in a List A match for Delhi came back in 2010, while Rohit last played for Mumbai in this format in 2018. Despite their extended break from domestic cricket, both players have continued to maintain exceptional ODI records, with high runs and solid averages, making their participation in domestic cricket all the more important.
