After Indian batters struggled in the home series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia, several former cricketers criticized the lack of participation in domestic cricket as a key reason for the dip in form. Responding to the concerns, the BCCI issued new guidelines emphasizing the importance of playing domestic matches to secure and solidify spots in the national team.
Among those facing scrutiny is India’s captain Rohit Sharma, who has been in a rough patch with the bat. Rohit previously joined the Mumbai team ahead of the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season and was seen practising in the nets.
While his inclusion in the upcoming games had been speculative, Rohit confirmed during the press conference unveiling India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad that he will indeed be playing in Mumbai’s match against Jammu and Kashmir. “I will (play),” Rohit Sharma said, putting the speculation to rest.
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Ajit Agarkar, chairman of the national selection committee, elaborated on the importance of domestic cricket. “Sometimes, to be fair to a lot of players, it’s difficult if you’re playing all three formats. You don’t get as much time. But there’s no doubt they should play domestic cricket. Most of the guys will probably play this round of Ranji Trophy,” Agarkar stated.
Rohit Sharma will be playing his first Ranji Trophy match after 10 years. ⭐
– Ro, setting an example for the future. pic.twitter.com/CvXmhDAxur
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 18, 2025
He further emphasized that participation in domestic cricket benefits not only individual form and fitness but also strengthens the domestic structure overall. “As selectors, we expect players to play whenever they’re available because it’s good for the ecosystem,” Agarkar added.
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Rohit last played for Mumbai in a Ranji Trophy game against Uttar Pradesh in 2015. This time, he will be joined by Yashasvi Jaiswal for the match against Jammu and Kashmir. Rohit even participated in match simulations alongside Ajinkya Rahane, preparing himself for a crucial outing in domestic cricket.
