India’s cricket board (BCCI) has told senior players that they must play domestic cricket if they want to be considered for the national team in future matches and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Following this rule, Rohit Sharma has informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s top one-day domestic tournament. Mumbai’s campaign will begin on December 24, between India’s ODI series against South Africa (Dec 3–9) and New Zealand (Jan 11 onwards).
However, Virat Kohli has not yet confirmed his availability. Sources say the 37-year-old, who now lives in London, has not informed the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) about his plans.
Both Rohit and Kohli have retired from Test and T20 cricket, and now focus only on ODIs. The BCCI has made it clear that even senior players must “go through the domestic grind” to stay fit and in touch with competitive cricket.
“If they want to play for India, they must play domestic matches,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express. “Since both have retired from two formats, domestic cricket will help them stay match-fit.”
Rohit recently performed well in the Australia ODI series, scoring a half-century and a century, and was named Player of the Series. Kohli struggled early with two ducks but ended with an unbeaten fifty in the final match.
Rohit, 38, last played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy earlier this year after almost 10 years. He is also thinking about joining the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy starting November 26. He has been training regularly at Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy in Mumbai.
Meanwhile, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that playing domestic cricket is compulsory for all players who are not on international duty.
“We have made it clear that players must play domestic cricket whenever available. That’s how they stay sharp,” Agarkar said.
