Rohit Sharma Confirms Vijay Hazare Trophy Participation, Uncertainty Looms Over Virat Kohli’s Plans

Indian captain Rohit Sharma has reportedly informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he is available to represent the team in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic 50-over competition. However, there is no official clarity on Virat Kohli’s participation for Delhi in the same tournament, according to a report by The Indian Express.

The development comes as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed both veterans to participate in domestic cricket in order to remain eligible for ODI selection going forward.

BCCI’s Directive: Domestic Cricket is Mandatory

With both Rohit and Kohli having officially retired from T20Is and Test cricket, the BCCI has made it clear that their pathway to future ODI selection will depend on domestic performances — particularly in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT).

A BCCI source quoted in The Indian Express said:

“The board and team management have conveyed to both of them that they will have to play domestic cricket if they want to play for India. As they both have retired from two formats, they must play domestic cricket to remain match-fit.”

The directive comes amid ongoing discussions about India’s squad composition for the 2026 ICC Champions Trophy and 2027 ODI World Cup cycle, with the board keen to ensure that senior players stay active and in rhythm between international fixtures.

Rohit Sharma’s Domestic Commitment Praised

Rohit Sharma’s decision to make himself available has been well received within the Mumbai camp. According to reports, Rohit has even offered to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) — India’s domestic T20 competition — beginning November 26, despite his retirement from T20Is earlier this year.

“Rohit told the Mumbai Cricket Association that he is ready for the Vijay Hazare campaign and even expressed his willingness to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to support the side,” the report stated.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 begins on December 24, right after India’s home ODI series against South Africa (November 30–December 6). India will then host New Zealand for another three-match ODI series from January 11–18, 2026.

Rohit, who led India to a 2–1 ODI series victory against Australia earlier this year, was also Player of the Series, scoring a hundred and a fifty. His domestic return is being seen as part of a broader effort to maintain match readiness and nurture emerging Mumbai talents under his guidance.

Virat Kohli Yet to Confirm Availability

While Rohit’s participation appears confirmed, Virat Kohli’s domestic plans remain uncertain. The former India captain, who represents Delhi in the domestic circuit, is yet to inform the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) about his availability for the tournament.

BCCI officials are reportedly hopeful that Kohli will rejoin the domestic fold to fine-tune his ODI rhythm, especially given the reduced number of international fixtures before the New Zealand series.

“BCCI would like to see Kohli play domestic cricket to stay in rhythm for upcoming ODI assignments,” an official said.

Kohli last featured in domestic 50-over cricket during the 2021 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he made a brief appearance before a packed international calendar limited further participation.

Why BCCI Wants Senior Stars in Domestic Circuit

The BCCI’s renewed emphasis on domestic appearances for senior players stems from a broader effort to strengthen India’s domestic structure and ensure that established cricketers continue to mentor younger talent.

Board officials believe the presence of veterans like Rohit and Kohli can raise standards in the domestic circuit while also keeping them match-ready during international breaks.

“We’ve seen how playing domestic cricket benefits even established names,” a BCCI source noted. “It helps maintain form and allows youngsters to learn from the best.”

The move also echoes a pattern seen in Australian and English cricket, where senior internationals are occasionally asked to feature in domestic one-day or first-class games before major international tournaments.

India’s Packed Schedule Ahead

India’s cricket calendar for the 2025–26 season remains packed, with a series of bilateral and ICC events lined up. After the South Africa and New Zealand ODIs, the focus will shift to the Asia Cup 2026 and Champions Trophy qualifiers.

Both Rohit and Kohli remain integral to India’s ODI strategy, particularly given their experience in World Cup campaigns and proven ability in pressure situations. However, the BCCI wants both to maintain competitive sharpness — and domestic cricket is now seen as the best platform for that.

Rohit and Kohli: Contrasting Recent Form

While Rohit Sharma enjoyed a standout ODI series against Australia earlier this year — scoring a brilliant hundred and a match-winning 50 — Kohli endured a mixed run. After two rare ducks, he returned to form in the final game, scoring an unbeaten 87 in a 168-run stand that helped India clinch the series 2–1.

Both players have since taken short breaks but are expected to feature prominently in India’s ODI roadmap for the next two years, provided they maintain domestic and international form.

The Road Ahead

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy approaches, all eyes will be on Mumbai and Delhi’s squad announcements. Rohit’s inclusion will bolster Mumbai’s title ambitions, while Kohli’s participation could give Delhi a major boost.

With BCCI mandating domestic involvement for senior pros, the upcoming tournament promises to feature some of Indian cricket’s biggest names — a rare treat for domestic fans and a valuable bridge between experience and emerging talent.

Final Word

Rohit Sharma’s commitment to Mumbai underscores his professionalism and leadership, setting the tone for younger players. Whether Virat Kohli follows suit could determine not only Delhi’s campaign but also India’s broader ODI preparations heading into 2026.