The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a firm and unprecedented message to its two biggest modern-day icons — Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma — to return to domestic cricket if they wish to continue representing India in One-Day Internationals.
According to board sources, the directive was part of BCCI’s new approach to ensure all players, irrespective of stature, remain match-fit and committed to the national structure. With both veterans having retired from Tests and T20 Internationals, ODIs remain their only active format, raising concerns within the board about rhythm and competitive readiness.
“Every player who wishes to be considered for selection must play domestic cricket when not on national duty,” a senior board official reportedly said. “There will be no exceptions.”
The BCCI’s decision comes ahead of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic one-day competition. Rohit Sharma has already confirmed his availability to play for Mumbai, while Virat Kohli is yet to inform the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) of his plans.
Officials believe that playing in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy will help senior players maintain match sharpness and set an example for younger cricketers. “It’s not just about form — it’s about sending a message that everyone must stay connected to the domestic system,” a selector said.
With the next ODI World Cup in 2027 on the horizon, the move also reflects the selectors’ intent to assess long-term options and transition planning. Failure to comply with the new directive could make it difficult for even established stars to retain their places in the ODI setup.
For Rohit and Virat, who have defined Indian cricket over the past decade, this directive marks a new phase — one where reputation must be backed by renewed commitment to the grind.
As one board insider put it, “Legends or not, everyone has to earn their spot.”
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