Veteran spinner R. Ashwin has said that senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should play in India A matches or the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay ready for upcoming ODI games.
Ashwin pointed out that both players have not played competitive cricket for almost four months since the IPL season. With India set to tour Australia for three ODIs under new captain Shubman Gill, Ashwin believes that game practice is important for them to stay in good form.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said the selectors should “find a way” to get Rohit and Kohli to play some 50-over cricket before the ODI series. “If they are part of the ODI plans, they must play in India A matches or the Vijay Hazare Trophy for their state teams. That will help everyone know what form they are in,” he said.
Ashwin added that if the players are given the chance and still choose not to play, the management should have a clear discussion about their future in ODIs. “No one can replace the experience that Rohit and Virat bring to the team, but the selectors and coaches also need to be clear about their plans leading up to the 2027 World Cup,” he said.
