Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli last represented India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Now, both legends are set to make their return to international cricket as India faces Australia in a three-match ODI series starting October 19. Known for consistently troubling the Australian bowling attack, Rohit and Kohli remain vital despite being in the twilight of their careers.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: Even before the series got underway, speculation about their potential retirement from ODIs had begun. Both players were asked to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy as part of considerations for future ODI selections, with chief selector Ajit Agarkar appearing cautious about relying on them in the team’s long-term plans.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: Interestingly, both Rohit and Kohli are eager to be part of India’s squad for the 2027 Cricket World Cup. However, their inclusion is far from certain, as the management seems inclined to gradually transition to younger players.
“Going to Benefit Us a Lot”—BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma:
Ahead of the Australia ODI series, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla dismissed any speculation about retirements, reaffirming that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain integral to India’s ODI plans.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: “They are going to benefit us a lot. They are outstanding batsmen, and we will succeed in defeating Australia with them in the team. It is absolutely wrong to say this is their last ODI series. Retirement is a decision for the players themselves,” Shukla told ANI in Delhi.
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir also weighed in on Kohli and Rohit’s future in the ODI squad, hinting that there is ample time before any final decisions.
“The 50-over World Cup is still two-and-a-half years away, so it’s important to focus on the present,” Gambhir said at a press conference after India’s 2-0 Test series win over the West Indies. “They are quality players returning to the squad, and their experience will be invaluable in Australia. Hopefully, both will have a successful tour, and more importantly, the team will have a successful series.”
Under newly appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill, Kohli and Rohit will make their return when India faces Australia in the first ODI on October 19 in Perth.