Star Cricketers Kohli and Sharma may end their ODI careers in the current year following their decision to step down from Tests and T20 cricket.
In a significant development for Indian cricket, reports suggest that star batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to retire from the One Day International (ODI) format after the upcoming series against Australia, scheduled for October 2025 [1][2][3].
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly indicated that Kohli and Sharma do not fit into their plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup [1][2]. As of mid-2025, both players are still active in ODIs, but their participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier domestic one-day tournament, starting in December 2025, could potentially push them towards announcing their retirement from international cricket after the Australia series [1][2].
The BCCI is currently focusing on preparations for the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, and has dismissed speculation about Kohli and Sharma's ODI futures at present [1]. However, the team management has shown intent to transition to younger players in ODIs, with emerging talents like Shubman Gill firmly in contention [2][3][5].
Both Kohli and Sharma have been pivotal figures and former all-format captains for India, and their retirement will mark the end of an era [5]. While the official retirement announcements may come closer to or during the Australia series in October 2025, credible reports and sources strongly suggest that this series might mark the final chapter of their international careers in the 50-over format.
With more than two years remaining before the 2027 ODI World Cup, the BCCI is reportedly working on a clear strategy for the tournament, and it seems that Kohli and Sharma may not be part of their core plans [4]. The Vijay Hazare Trophy could be a deciding factor in their continued inclusion in the national ODI squad beyond the series against Australia.
[1] [Source for the first bullet point] [2] [Source for the second bullet point] [3] [Source for the third bullet point] [4] [Source for the sixth bullet point] [5] [Source for the eighth bullet point]
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) seems to be focusing on transitioning to younger players for the ODI World Cup in 2027, as both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may not be part of their core plans. With their international 50-over careers potentially ending after the series against Australia in October 2025, sports enthusiasts eagerly await the final chapter of the illustrious careers of these former all-format captains for India.
