Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are at crucial stages of their cricketing journeys. Both legends retired from T20Is last year after India’s World Cup triumph and stepped away from Test cricket in May. Their focus is now on India’s next ODI series against Australia in October. Speculation about their ODI future has been intense, but Rajeev Shukla has dismissed farewell rumours.
ODI Series Against Australia
India will face Australia in three ODIs starting October 19 in Perth, followed by Adelaide and Sydney on October 23 and 25. Kohli and Rohit, last seen during the IPL, were set to play ODIs against Bangladesh this month. With that series cancelled, fans will now see them return in Australia. Ticket sales for the series are already strong.
Retirement Rumours Around Kohli and Rohit
Reports in Dainik Jagran earlier this month claimed the Australia series could be their last for India. This sparked debate about whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could play the 2027 World Cup. Kohli, who will be 39 by then, has already targeted the tournament. Rohit, who will be 41 in 2027, is training hard to remain fit for the only ICC white-ball trophy missing from his cabinet.
Rajeev Shukla Clears the Air
Rajeev Shukla, BCCI vice-president, firmly denied any farewell series talks. Speaking on the Two Sloggers Podcast, he said:
“When did they retire? Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will both play one-dayers. So, if they are playing, why are you worried about a farewell series? Yes, they have retired from two formats in phases, but they are playing in ODIs, right? So please don’t get worked up over it,” Shukla stated.
He further added:
“Our policy at BCCI is very clear. We don’t tell any player to retire. A player himself makes that call. He has to decide, and we respect that. We can only decide something when it’s official. Virat Kohli is extremely fit, and Rohit Sharma has been playing so well. Why are you worried about the farewell?”
Focus on 2027 World Cup
Both Kohli and Rohit remain motivated to extend their ODI careers. They aim to compete in the 2027 World Cup, even though age and fitness will be major factors. Their performances in the upcoming Australia series will provide a clearer picture of their future with Team India.
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