The future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODIs has again become a major talking point. Both Indian greats are expected to feature in the three-match ODI series against Australia in October 2025. Yet, doubts remain over whether they will be part of India’s 2027 World Cup plans.
Reports suggest this could be their final series in Indian colours. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir are said to be considering a younger squad for the next cycle. It has even been reported that Rohit and Virat may need to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Rohit Sharma Begins Fitness Tests in Bengaluru
India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma will take a pre-season fitness test at the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. He will join Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammad Siraj, and Shardul Thakur. The group will undergo the Yo-Yo Test and a Dexa Scan to evaluate bone density and fitness levels.
This marks Rohit’s first fitness test since retiring from Tests. Virat Kohli, who stepped away from Test cricket in May, has yet to confirm when he will undergo his own fitness assessment.
BCCI Makes Pre-Season Tests Compulsory
A BCCI official explained the board’s policy while speaking to the Indian Express. “All players have to undergo a pre-season fitness Test, it’s mandatory as per the contract. These tests help the COE understand the areas the players have to work on or where they are lacking. As there was a big break (after the England Test series), the players were given sets of exercises to do at home,” the official said.
Strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux has also recommended adding the rugby-inspired Bronco Test later this season.
Key Players Already Cleared
T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, along with Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav, has already completed the mandatory fitness checks ahead of the Asia Cup starting September 9.
With the spotlight firmly on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the upcoming Australia series may decide whether the two icons remain central to India’s ODI plans or make way for the next generation before the 2027 World Cup.
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