BCCI faces dilemma as Virat Kohli denies playing in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Drama is mounting in the Indian cricket team as tensions rise over the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. It is being said that the relationship between Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir is turning cold, with disagreements over the batting superstar’s approach to preparation and domestic cricket participation.

As reported by NDTV, Rohit Sharma has already confirmed his availability for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, and he is also set to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 2025 after the conclusion of the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa to maintain his match fitness.

BCCI faces challenges as Virat Kohli refuses to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy

However, Kohli has reportedly refused to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, as he believes that “excessive preparation” isn’t necessary. The former Indian captain lives in London with his family since earlier this year and only comes to India for national duty.

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This difference in approach has put the BCCI in a difficult position, as they are reluctant to make exceptions, even for a player of Kohli’s stature. The BCCI insists that all players follow the same rules, and Kohli’s refusal stands in contrast to Rohit’s willingness to participate.

A BCCI source was quoted as saying by NDTV: “The issue is with the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He (Kohli) simply doesn't want to play. When Rohit [Sharma] is also playing, how can there be an exception for one player? And what do we tell the other players? That someone is different from all of you? ”

Virat Kohli wants to prepare for ODIs in his own way

The Indian selection committee and Gambhir have been consistent in pushing players to take part in domestic tournaments, emphasizing fairness and team culture. Both Rohit and Kohli had previously played the Ranji Trophy following a disappointing Test series in Australia.

However, Rohit is ready to continue doing so, but Kohli has openly made it clear that he is relying on his strong foundation and focusing solely on ODI cricket after hitting a majestic knock of 135 runs to help India win the first ODI by 17 runs against South Africa in Ranchi.

Kohli had said at the post-match presentation in Ranchi: “I've never been a believer in a lot of prep. All my cricket has been mental. I work physically very hard, as long as my fitness levels are up, and then you visualize batting and feeling well, it's good.”

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Constant scrutiny of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli slammed

On the other hand, the debate over Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s place in the ODI squad is heating up with the ICC World Cup 2027 on the horizon, but many experts and fans feel it’s time to let the two superstars do what they do best: destroy bowling attacks in their own powerful yet contrasting styles.

Many felt the current Indian think tank should be working on creating a clear blueprint for India to handle spin attacks better in Tests, identifying a core group of specialist players, and laying out a roadmap for the future after recent struggles.

But Gambhir and Indian chief selector Ajit Agarkar have been constantly scrutinizing Rohit and Kohli, especially with the World Cup still months away. If discussions about the veterans’ future are necessary, they could be planned after the T20 World Cup 2026. With no ODI games between mid-January and mid-July, there is no reason to rush judgment.