“Like It Happened With Dhoni In IPL”: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Get Huge Warning From Ex-BCCI Selector

Former national selector and ex-BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale has sent a strong piece of advice to Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, urging the duo to participate in domestic cricket to maintain their sharpness and match fitness — particularly now that they feature in only one format. Jagdale’s remarks come amid mounting scrutiny over the future of both batters, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup still two years away.

Jagdale noted that while both players have enjoyed glittering careers, stepping away from continuous competitive cricket can lead to rustiness, a challenge previously faced by legends like MS Dhoni, Brian Lara, and Matthew Hayden.

Domestic Cricket Key To Stay Match-Ready

“The decision they’ve taken to play just one format is tough on them,” Jagdale said in an interview with PTI. “They’ve both been outstanding in white-ball cricket, but if you’re not playing regularly, rustiness will creep in, like it happened with Dhoni in the IPL and even with Brian Lara, Matthew Hayden.”

Jagdale emphasized the importance of constant action to stay “match-fit,” explaining that sheer experience or skill isn’t enough when players go long stretches without competitive cricket. “A lot of cricketers, once they retire from international cricket, aren’t quite the same — it is natural,” he added.

Both Kohli and Rohit returned to international cricket after nearly six months for the first ODI against Australia in Perth but misfired. Rohit managed only 8 off 14 balls, while Kohli registered an eight-ball duck. Their rusty outing reignited questions about practice and game exposure outside of international matches.

Rustiness Concerns Ahead Of 2027 World Cup

Given that ODI cricket will be played less in the upcoming years, Jagdale stressed that domestic participation — such as in the Vijay Hazare Trophy — could help the senior pros stay tuned to the game’s rhythm. “As it is, 50-over cricket will be played less. Competing in domestic tournaments will definitely work in their favour,” he said.

Jagdale cited former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan’s recent drop from the ODI squad as an example of how difficult it is to stay sharp as a one-format player. “It’s tough for a player to remain razor-sharp being a one-format cricketer,” he cautioned.

2027 World Cup Still a Possibility, Says Jagdale

Addressing speculation around the duo’s future, Jagdale clarified that both Kohli and Rohit are not finished yet but asserted that their prospects for the 2027 World Cup depend heavily on fitness and consistency. “I don’t think they’re finished, but the 2027 World Cup will depend on their fitness. There’s a lot of cricket to be played before that. If they continue to perform, they can certainly be there,” he said.

Rohit Sharma would be 40 by the time of the next World Cup, while Kohli will be 38 — ages where match fitness becomes a crucial determining factor.

“Natural Transition” From Rohit To Gill

Jagdale also shared his thoughts on Shubman Gill taking over the ODI captaincy from Rohit Sharma, calling it “a natural transition.” Praising Rohit for his contribution as captain and player, he said, “Rohit has been a great captain and a terrific white-ball cricketer — a role model who changed the outlook of Indian players. But there’s nothing wrong with selectors looking ahead. It’s a natural process.”

He also lauded Gill’s composure and recent performances. “Gill had a terrific series against England. You learn on the job, but it’s been a fine performance so far. He looks relaxed and confident, which bodes well for Indian cricket.”

On Asia Cup Trophy Controversy

When asked about the lingering Asia Cup controversy following Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s insistence on personally handing over the trophy to Indian players, Jagdale dismissed it as unnecessary drama. “This is something that has never happened,” he said. He further advised that sporting relations should be handled with mutual respect: “Either you don’t play and pull out of the tournament, or if you do, then play in the true spirit of the game. We’ve refused bilateral series before,” he concluded.