The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly concerned about the match readiness of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, leading to a high-stakes meeting involving key figures like head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The meeting is scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad following the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa.
The primary agenda is to discuss Sharma and Kohli's future roles in the One Day International (ODI) format, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon. Both players, having retired from T20Is and Tests, now exclusively participate in ODIs. This limited exposure raises concerns about their sharpness and adaptability in international matches.
A key objective of the meeting is to provide clarity to Sharma and Kohli regarding the team management's expectations and their roles, eliminating any uncertainty that could affect their performance. A BCCI source emphasized the importance of open communication, ensuring the players can focus on their game without the burden of speculation. The board has also advised Rohit Sharma to concentrate on his fitness and performance, dismissing any external speculation about his future.
The BCCI is also keen on identifying potential backup players for Sharma and Kohli to ensure the team remains competitive should either player be unavailable for the 2027 World Cup. This proactive approach aims to solidify the team's foundation and build depth in the batting order.
Concerns have been raised about the form and fitness of both players, particularly after their return from breaks. While they scored runs in the third ODI against Australia, their performance in the earlier matches was considered "rusty". The team management is hopeful that Sharma and Kohli will effectively lead the batting lineup, providing stability and guidance to younger players. The BCCI recognizes that consistent performance is crucial, especially with the World Cup approaching.
To address the issue of match readiness, the BCCI is encouraging both players to participate in domestic competitions like the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This would provide them with valuable match experience and keep them in form for upcoming international assignments. Rohit Sharma has reportedly informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of his willingness to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The Indian team management also wants Rohit Sharma to continue his aggressive batting style at the top of the order, an approach that has proven successful in past multi-nation events. Virat Kohli, on the other hand, needs to demonstrate that he still possesses the hunger and determination to perform at the highest level.
The upcoming ODI series against South Africa will serve as a testing ground for both veterans, with their form and fitness levels under close observation. The BCCI's proactive measures indicate a commitment to ensuring that Sharma and Kohli are adequately prepared for future challenges, including the series against New Zealand in January and England in July.
