Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's possible ODI retirement: Sourav Ganguly fuels rumours

Selection Committee's stance and prospects

The All India Men's Senior Selection Committee has reportedly decided that the team will now move forward without these two experienced players. This decision also means that Rohit and Virat will have to seriously consider their international career plans. In the last fourteen months, both have distanced themselves from T20Is and Tests. In such a situation, ODIs were their last active format, but now uncertainty has increased in that too.

Condition for return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy

According to reports, if both players want to play in the big ICC tournament of 2027, then they may have to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This is India's premier domestic 50-over competition, where the selectors can judge their commitment through performance. Rohit represents Mumbai in domestic cricket, while Virat plays for Delhi. In such a situation, their return to the home ground can be a special sight for the audience after many years.

The role of experienced players in changing times

Young players have had a lot of opportunities in the Indian cricket team in recent years. Batsmen like Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are considered to be the pillars of the future. The selection committee is probably now planning for the long term, preparing a new core team for 2027. This change is often difficult, especially when it involves two of the biggest names in the country.

Importance of return to domestic cricket

The possible participation of Rohit and Virat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will further strengthen the importance of domestic cricket. Often, big players stay away from domestic competitions, but if both of them enter it, it will increase the level and competition of the tournament. Also, it will be a signal to the selectors that how serious both of them are for 2027.

Mental and emotional aspects

Such decisions have a profound impact on the careers of players. Rohit and Virat together have taken Indian cricket to many heights. The possibility of being suddenly dropped from the international level can affect their confidence and mental preparation. Nevertheless, the professional attitude of both has been such that they are ready to face every challenge.

Reaction of media and fans

After this news, the debate has intensified on social media. Some people believe that it is important for the team to give a chance to new players, while many say that such experienced players should play as long as their performance is good. Supporters of Rohit and Virat believe that both are still capable of playing world-class cricket, and their experience will be invaluable in any major tournament.

2027 World Cup target

The 2027 ODI World Cup will not be played in India, but on the African continent, with South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia hosting the event. The pitches and conditions there will be different from Asia, and in such a situation, it is important to start working on the team combination right now. Perhaps this is why the selection committee is in a hurry to prepare for the future.

Individual achievements and contributions

Rohit and Virat's career stats speak for themselves. Rohit has scored three double centuries in his career, and his aggressive mindset in ODIs is praised by everyone. Virat's consistent run-scoring and mastery in chases make him special. It is difficult to imagine the Indian ODI team without him at the moment.

The way forward

If this decision is officially implemented, Rohit and Virat will have two options: either try to make a comeback through domestic cricket or distance themselves from ODI cricket and focus only on franchise cricket and personal assignments. This will not be an easy decision for them, as both have always given priority to playing for the country.

It could prove to be hasty to remove Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from ODIs at this time. Their performance in the 2023 World Cup proves that they are still top-level players. It is important to give opportunities to young players, but this change should be phased, so that the team remains balanced. If the selection committee really wants to prepare for 2027, then the experience of players like Rohit and Virat should be a part of the process and not be completely sidelined.