Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been out of action for some time now, last seen during the IPL 2025. They were not part of the Indian team during the away Test series against England as they had retired from the longest format of the game. Both batting stalwarts are now limited to ODIs. While the Indian team has moved on from them in other formats, Rohit continues to lead the 50-over side, and Virat remains as influential as ever.
In the ODI format, the 2027 World Cup appears to be their primary focus, though neither has officially communicated his future plans. There hasn’t been any major confirmations from the BCCI as well as from the team management.
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As things stand, neither Rohit nor Virat is assured of a place in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad. While the duo are not a part of the T20I and Test teams, the lack of action could trigger a big doubt in the minds of the selection committee and the top BCCI bosses.
Australia Series Could Be Last For Rohit And Virat
India’s next ODI assignment is the away white-ball tour of Australia, starting October 19. The matches will be played in Perth, Adelaide and Sydney.
In the build-up for the 2027 ODI WC, India will also play three ODIs against South Africa at home in December. In 2026, India’s ODI schedule includes series against New Zealand (January), Afghanistan (June), England (July), the West Indies (September), and another series against New Zealand (October).
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Rohit and Kohli, who helped India win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 a few months back, might have to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the domestic one-day competition that starts in December this year, if they want to remain in contention for a spot in the ODI World Cup. Without Vijay Hazare Trophy participation, the doors are unlikely to open for them.
If they are not considered for the 2027 OD WC, their series against Australia could be their last in the format as well as in international cricket
Notably, both Rohit and Kohli turned out for their respective sides in the Ranji Trophy after poor outings in Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, they announced their retirements from the longer format in May, before the squad for the England tour was announced.