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Kohli & Rohit Back For AUS Series; Agarkar’s Shock Mandate: Play Domestic Cricket or Get Dropped

Shivansh Rana | 4 min read | 4 days ago | Oct 12, 2025 08:25 pm IST
Kohli & Rohit Back For AUS Series; Agarkar's Shock Mandate: Play Domestic Cricket or Get Dropped

Yeah, you read that right. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are officially back in the squad for the three-match ODI series against Australia starting October 19. But before you start celebrating, there’s a huge catch, a non-negotiable condition laid down by chief selector Ajit Agarkar that could change their entire path to the 2027 World Cup.

Key Takeaways

  • Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been selected for the Australia ODI series starting October 19.
  • Shubman Gill has been named the new permanent ODI captain, taking over from Rohit.
  • The Mandate: All players, including Kohli and Sharma, must play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy when available.
  • This rule is to ensure match fitness for players who are now ODI-only specialists.
  • Both seniors have reportedly agreed to play in the domestic tournament starting December 24.

The Ultimatum: Play Domestic or Forget the World Cup

Here’s the thing. Agarkar and the selection committee have made it crystal clear. If you want to wear that blue jersey, you’ve got to play domestic cricket. No exceptions. For Kohli and Sharma, who have retired from Tests and T20Is, this means showing up for the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Why the sudden hard-line stance? It’s all about match fitness and form. With the legends now focusing only on one format, the selectors need to be sure they’re sharp, hungry, and ready for international pressure. They can’t just show up for the big tours. They’ve got to earn their spot, just like everyone else.

Is Everyone on the Same Page?

It’s a mixed bag, honestly. The new ODI captain, Shubman Gill, has publicly backed the legends. He told reporters that Kohli and Sharma are “very much in the mix” for the 2027 World Cup, stressing how valuable their experience is. It’s a smart move from a young captain who knows he needs their guidance.

But not everyone is convinced. Former players like South Africa’s AB de Villiers and India’s own Dilip Vengsarkar have raised eyebrows. They’ve questioned whether two players focusing on a single format can maintain their edge for the next three years. The debate is raging.

Expert Analysis: This Isn’t a Bluff

Look, if you think this is just a warning, you’re mistaken. The BCCI has already set a powerful precedent. Remember Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer? They lost their central contracts for not complying with the domestic cricket directive. That wasn’t a slap on the wrist; it was a clear statement of intent. Agarkar’s message is simple: no player is bigger than the system. By agreeing to play, Kohli and Sharma are acknowledging this new reality.

Social Media Storm

As you can imagine, the internet is on fire. Fans are split right down the middle. Some are applauding the BCCI for holding everyone to the same standard. Others feel it’s a bit disrespectful to two players who have given so much to Indian cricket. Hashtags are flying, and everyone’s got an opinion.

So, What Happens Next?

First up is the Australia series on October 19. All eyes will be on the seniors’ performance under a new captain. Then, the big one. The Vijay Hazare Trophy kicks off on December 24, and you can bet the viewership for their matches will be off the charts. Their performance there could very well decide their journey towards 2027.

So, what do you think? Is this fair? Is it the right way to manage two of the greatest players of this generation? The next few months are going to be absolutely critical.