Domestic one-day participation becomes non-negotiable
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set out a clear directive: senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must participate in domestic one-day cricket if they want to remain in India’s ODI plans. The aim is to ensure match-fitness and rhythm for the 50-over format ahead of major tournaments.
With both players having retired from Test and T20 formats, ODIs are now their sole international focus. The BCCI believes the ageing duo need continuous competitive exposure, thus the mandate.
Why the new policy — and what it means
The domestic one-day cricket directive emerges against a backdrop of a sparse international ODI calendar for India. The BCCI is concerned that without regular high-quality exposure, even stalwarts like Rohit and Kohli may lose sharpness.
Rohit, 38, and Kohli, 37, have vast ODI experience and remain key figures for India. However, their limited playing windows and absence from domestic competitions raise selection questions. The new rule makes domestic one-day participation an implicit selection condition.
According to documents and media reports, the board has communicated that “if they want to play for India, they must play domestic cricket”.
Rohit confirms domestic return, Kohli yet to commit
Rohit has responded swiftly to the mandate, confirming his availability to feature for the Vijay Hazare Trophy later this year. He has reportedly informed the Mumbai Cricket Association of his willingness.
Additionally, reports suggest he may also consider participation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20 domestic) starting November 26, to further ensure match-fitness.
By contrast, Kohli has not formally confirmed his participation in any domestic one-day tournament. The BCCI has reportedly been awaiting his response.
Implications for the 2026 Champions Trophy and 2027 World Cup
This policy is forward-looking. With the next major target being the 2026 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, India’s management is keen to ensure its veteran batters stay ready.
Given the limited number of ODIs scheduled for India in the near term, domestic one-day tournaments are seen as the only reliable source of match practice. The BCCI sees this as part of a broader shift to keep the 50-over game competitive and the seniors in shape.
Failure to play could risk exclusion from India’s ODI squad, especially as younger talent pushes for spots. The selection committee’s stance is unambiguous: availability and domestic participation count.
Broader context and veteran careers
Rohit stepped away from Test cricket earlier this year to focus solely on ODIs. Kohli, likewise, has ceased playing T20Is and Tests, shifting his focus entirely to the one-day format. Their adaptation to this single format has placed unique demands on managing fitness and form.
Domestic one-day cricket, such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy, is List A 50-over cricket and mirrors the international format closely. Their involvement would boost the domestic profile and help maintain tempo ahead of international matches.
What to watch for next
- Whether Kohli responds formally to the BCCI’s directive and commits to a domestic one-day event.
- How Rohit fares in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and whether he uses it as a vehicle to stay in contention.
- How selection for the ODI series vs. South Africa (starting Nov-30, 2025) and subsequent fixtures is influenced by this policy.
- Whether this sets a precedent for other senior players aiming to retain national spots while not participating in domestic cricket regularly.