Amid growing speculation about his ODI future, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has reportedly assured the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of his readiness to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, signalling his commitment to domestic cricket. However, uncertainty continues to surround Virat Kohli’s availability for the same tournament. Following the recent Australia series, both veterans may have to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to prove their match fitness, which has become a key selection criterion for the national ODI side.

With Rohit and Kohli having retired from Test and T20Is, their limited on-field action has prompted concerns over match sharpness. The BCCI and team management have now made it clear that active participation in domestic cricket will be mandatory for continued selection in the ODI squad.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy begins on December 24, following India’s three-match home ODI series against South Africa (December 3–9). The Men in Blue will then face New Zealand in another home ODI series starting January 11.

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Speculation also surrounds whether Rohit Sharma will participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which starts on November 26. Reports suggest that the Mumbai captain has informed the MCA of his tentative availability. Sharma has been training regularly at the Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy in Mumbai, signalling his intent to stay match-ready.

Salute to commitment of Rohit Sharma at age of 38. After a successtul Australia tour, now he has made himself available for Vijay Hazare Trophy.

I don’t know how Ajit Agarkar sacked him as ODI captain & made that non-commital remark. He is so committed❤️pic.twitter.com/fdw3ZEAAcN

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) November 12, 2025

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, currently based in London, is expected to return to India soon, with the BCCI hopeful that he too will feature in domestic competitions.

The message from the Indian board is clear: even senior players like Rohit and Kohli must maintain form and fitness through consistent domestic participation. Both legends have expressed their ambition to represent India in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, keeping their international dreams alive.

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In the recent ODI series in Australia, Rohit Sharma was named Player of the Series, scoring a century in the final match, while Kohli bounced back strongly with an unbeaten 87 after two early dismissals.