“Play Vijay Hazare or Forget 2027 World Cup” – Gautam Gambhir’s Big Warning to Kohli & Rohit
BCCI may ask Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy to remain in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
After the 2025 Ranji Trophy drew record crowds with the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Indian cricket fans could see a similar buzz in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Reports suggest that the two batting legends might be asked to participate in the 50-over domestic tournament as a condition to keep their 2027 ODI World Cup hopes alive.
The BCCI, reportedly acting on suggestions from head coach Gautam Gambhir, had earlier instructed all international players to feature in domestic competitions during breaks from national duty.
This directive came after the 2025 tour of Australia, where India lost 3-1. Kohli and Rohit played one Ranji Trophy match each before withdrawing, citing injuries or unspecified reasons.
With both having retired from T20Is and Tests, their next ODI assignment is a three-match series in Australia in October. According to Dainik Jagran, this could be their final appearance in the national side if they skip the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The BCCI is reportedly ready to promote younger talent for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, similar to their approach in Tests.
Kohli and Rohit have made it clear, directly or indirectly, that they aim to feature in the 2027 edition after missing the 2023 final. However, Kohli will be 38 and Rohit nearing 40 by then, raising questions about their long-term plans.
Kohli topped the run charts in the 2009 Vijay Hazare Trophy with 534 runs, while Rohit last played in the tournament between 2016 and 2018.
The latest development comes amid reports that Gambhir is determined to end “star culture” in Indian cricket, a mission he may feel more confident about after India’s 2-2 Test series draw in England, despite criticism over his tactics.
