Indian cricket enthusiasts are set for a treat as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to return to action. After a gap of 7 months, the two star batsmen are back in international cricket, having been selected for the ODI series against Australia. This has ignited discussions about their availability for the 2027 World Cup and whether this series will mark their international retirement. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar has made a surprising disclosure on the matter.
On October 4th in Ahmedabad, following India’s victory over the West Indies in the first Test, the squad for the Australia tour was announced. Agarkar, heading the selection committee, was present. The announcement primarily focused on two aspects: the return of Virat and Rohit, and Shubman Gill’s appointment as the new ODI captain. Agarkar addressed both, with the spotlight on the selection and future plans of Rohit and Virat.
The most unexpected comment came from Agarkar concerning the duo’s participation in the 2027 World Cup. When questioned about the prospects of Rohit and Virat in the World Cup, Agarkar stated that neither player had made a concrete decision. He said, “Virat and Rohit haven’t entirely made up their minds about the World Cup yet.” This statement caused surprise, as both Kohli and Sharma had, on several earlier occasions, expressed their wish to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Consequently, speculation has arisen about their possible retirement from ODI cricket after this series.
However, Agarkar, and the selection committee, didn’t make any announcements or hints in this regard. He did suggest it was premature to discuss their World Cup participation. The former Indian fast bowler also dismissed rumors suggesting that this tour could be Virat and Rohit’s final international appearance, saying he hadn’t heard any ‘farewell series’ talks or rumors.
Furthermore, Agarkar, along with the entire team, including the two batsmen, also clarified that players not involved in international cricket must play domestic cricket. The focus will now be on whether these two players will be seen in the Vijay Hazare Trophy after the Australia tour.