- August 14, 2025
The BCCI appears to have a creative idea to keep India’s ODI batting legends in the loop, and it might scratch some domestic itches. Yes, that’s correct—our Men in Blue legends might return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy donut for the 2025-26 season. But why would two international superstars play on the domestic pitch? Let’s unravel what this would mean for their careers and Team India’s eventual route to the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The Domestic Route to ODI Survival
Listen up: BCCI is not simply sentimental in nudging Kohli and Rohit to play domestic cricket. Following India’s 1-3 ODI defeat in Australia, the BCCI now expects contracted players to step onto domestic grounds whenever feasible. Not even royalty will be exempt. When Kohli and Rohit play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, it will not be just to bulk up their stats – it is a clever way to show the selectors that they have the form, fitness, and fit for intent. Surely selectors would be happy to see their elite players grinding it out in the domestic ranks. Playing those 50-over matches affords a repeat of the message that we are hungrier, we are up for it, and we are ready to do it one last time to take India over the top Bridge and into another World Cup title.
Scheduling Challenges and India ‘A’ Opportunities
Of course, life isn’t so easy for the veteran pair. The 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy is exactly in the middle of a hectic home season with ODIs against South Africa, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. The BCCI has been contemplating the option of Kohli and Rohit playing India ‘A’ matches against Australia ‘A’ and South Africa ‘A’. These matches, in Rajkot this November, could serve as a happy hour – enough cricket to impress selection (as they both need to prove they still have a fire in their belly), but not enough to burn them out before the major series. For cricket fans, it’s a bit of a bonus, enabling us to take a peek at these legends of the game while mixing their seasoned experience with some good domestic feel.
Why This Could Be a Game-Changer for Their Legacy
The last time Kohli took part in the domestic 50-over tournament was 2010, with Rohit making his final appearance in 2018. They have not come back into 50-over cricket. So, returning is no longer just about their statistical reasons or their selection issues; it is about legacy. Their legacy shows you get back to basics, embrace challenges, and be a relevant part of an ever-changing ODI process. And, if they play well, it might fundamentally change how future generations of Indian cricketers allocate the game to their domestic seasons – that sometimes taking a step backwards to later step forwards was the best decision.
Whether it’s simply to come and play a couple of matches in a Vijay Hazare, or to make a full-fledged return, Kohli and Rohit are far from done. The BCCI’s request for them to play domestic cricket is equally termed strategic and symbolic. To the fanbase, the story is clear: legends do not deteriorate; they adapt, scrap, and persist in fighting off the game.
FAQs
1. What’s the reason BCCI wants the veteran duo in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy?
To showcase their form and stay in contention for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad.
2. When did Kohli most recently feature in India’s domestic 50-over tournament?
He last played in 2010 for Delhi.
3. Can they play the full 2025-26 Vijay Hazare season?
Kohli and Rohit won’t be available for all matches because of national team duties.
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