BCCI denies nudging Kohli and Rohit, confirming their voluntary Vijay Hazare participation
Mumbai
The BCCI has addressed long-running rumours regarding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, clarifying that the board did not pressure either of the seniors to join the domestic competition. With continuous speculation about their ODI futures and prospects for the 2027 World Cup, their decision to play the domestic 50-over tournament had sparked debate about whether it was self-motivated or a directive from the board. Both players have been in exceptional form recently, with Rohit claiming the Player of the Series award against Australia and Kohli earning the same accolade versus South Africa.
Reports earlier in the year suggested that centrally contracted players would be pushed to feature in domestic tournaments, especially after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat prompted the BCCI to stress domestic participation. However, according to RevSportz, a senior BCCI official dismissed claims that the board asked the duo to play Vijay Hazare. “They have decided, it’s their decision,” the official stated, putting speculation to rest.
Kohli had already informed the Delhi and District Cricket Association of his availability nearly three weeks ago, confirmed by DDCA President Rohan Jaitley. Rohit Sharma is also expected to represent Mumbai in the competition beginning December 24. Their decision echoes an earlier move this year when both played a Ranji Trophy match before retiring from Test cricket, underscoring their commitment to staying match-ready.
Both veterans have produced impressive numbers in recent months. Kohli amassed 302 runs, including two centuries, in the South Africa series, while Rohit contributed 146 runs with two fifties. In the preceding Australia series, each delivered crucial innings despite early setbacks. Head coach Gautam Gambhir acknowledged their experience but refrained from confirming their 2027 World Cup involvement, stressing the importance of present performance and opportunities for younger players.
