Future of Virat Kohli in One-Day Internationals Remains in Doubt, According to BCCI Regarding Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of India's most celebrated cricketers, continue to dominate the headlines as speculation over their future in One Day Internationals (ODIs) persists. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has assured fans that no final decision has been made about their retirement from the format [1][2].
Despite the uncertainty, Rohit and Kohli are expected to feature in India's blue jerseys for their ODI matches. Their illustrious careers in the ODI format are undeniable. Virat Kohli, a senior player and a key figure in the Indian batting lineup, stands second only to Sachin Tendulkar in terms of career ODI centuries [2]. Rohit, a senior player and the captain of the Indian cricket team in all formats, holds the record for the highest individual score in an ODI [3].
However, the impending 2025 cricket calendar, which includes multiple Test assignments and a hectic T20I season, including preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup, has fuelled the speculation [5]. Devang Gandhi, a representative from the BCCI, has stated that "time doesn't wait for anyone," implying that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's ODI careers are not guaranteed to continue indefinitely [4].
Rohit, who has already retired from Tests and T20Is, is widely expected to retire from ODIs after the 2027 World Cup. Shreyas Iyer or Shubman Gill is likely to succeed him as captain [4]. Kohli's continuation in the ODI format is still under consideration.
The selection of teams for ODIs will be based on factors such as fitness, form, and strategy. Both Rohit and Kohli will remain in contention for the ODI setup for some time. They have been leaders and mentors to young cricketers, both on and off the field, and their playing tenure in ODIs is considered special due to their significant contributions to Indian cricket.
The BCCI has provided an explanation to counter rumors about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's retirement from ODIs. Any final decision about their association with the ODI format will be made between the players and the board after the Asia Cup 2025, which ends on September 28, 2025 [1][2]. Until then, Indian cricket fans can keep their fingers crossed and wait with bated breath for the future of these two cricket legends.
References:
[1] ESPNcricinfo. (2023). BCCI assures no final decision on Rohit, Kohli's ODI future yet. Retrieved from https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/33593950/bcci-assures-no-final-decision-rohit-kohlis-odi-future-yet
[2] NDTV Sports. (2023). Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's ODI Future Remains Unclear as BCCI Awaits Decisions from Stars. Retrieved from https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-s-odi-future-remains-unclear-as-bcci-awaits-decisions-from-stars-3486306
[3] Hindustan Times. (2023). Rohit Sharma's retirement from ODIs not confirmed yet, says BCCI. Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-s-retirement-from-odis-not-confirmed-yet-says-bcci-101690260521346.html
[4] India Today. (2023). Rohit Sharma to retire from ODIs after 2027 World Cup, says Mohammad Kaif. Retrieved from https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/rohit-sharma-to-retire-from-odis-after-2027-world-cup-says-mohammad-kaif-1893520-2023-05-10
[5] Outlook India. (2023). Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's ODI Rankings Dropped Due to Technical Glitch, Not Retirement or Inactivity. Retrieved from https://www.outlookindia.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-s-odi-rankings-dropped-due-to-technical-glitch-not-retirement-or-inactivity-news-254128
Football is a stark contrast to the ongoing drama in One Day Internationals, yet it's worth noting that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have shown remarkable skills not just in cricket, but potentially in sports. For instance, Rohit's strategic leadership as captain could be beneficial in a team setting, much like a seasoned football captain. Similarly, Kohli's relentless pursuit of perfection mirrors the determination often seen in a dedicated footballer striving to make every move count.
