Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Asked to Play Vijay Hazare Trophy? Shubman Gill Finally Breaks Silence
Shubman Gill hints Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could play Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay match-ready after strong ODI showing against Australia.
India ODI captain Shubman Gill has hinted that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli might be asked to play domestic cricket to stay match-ready.
The duo starred in India’s nine-wicket win over Australia in Sydney, with Rohit scoring 121 and Virat 74. Together, they shared an unbeaten 168-run stand for the second wicket.
Even though they performed well, the two seniors play only one format now, having retired from Tests and T20Is. There is little competitive cricket for them until the next ODI series.
India faces South Africa starting November 30, and after that, the next ODIs are scheduled only in January 2026 against New Zealand.
When asked about Rohit and Virat playing domestic cricket, Gill said discussions will take place after the South Africa series.
“There is a bit of a gap between the South Africa and New Zealand series. We will have discussions after the South Africa series and decide how to keep the players in touch,” he said.
Earlier, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar suggested centrally-contracted players should represent their state teams whenever possible.
This has been interpreted as a signal that Rohit and Virat could be asked to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December. Both had skipped the India A series against Australia A before the Sydney tour.
Gill also praised the experience of the two stalwarts. “Having Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma helps me as a captain. I can ask them anything whenever I have doubts on the field. It is a big relief to have them around,” he said.
In the Sydney ODI, India bowled out Australia for 236, with Harshit Rana taking four wickets and Washington Sundar two. Rohit and Virat then guided India to a comfortable nine-wicket victory with 69 balls to spare.
