Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to be kicked out after Australia tour if they..

The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in Indian cricket is once again in the spotlight, with fans and experts debating whether the two legends will still be part of India’s plans for the ICC World Cup 2027. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to make their return to international cricket in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting on October 19.

Kohli and Rohit have retired from Test and T20I cricket, focusing exclusively on the ODI format now. Despite being in the twilight of their careers, both former Indian captains remain key figures in India’s ODI setup, and their experience is expected to play a major role in shaping the team’s future.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's ICC World Cup 2027 chances depend on domestic cricket

By the time the ICC World Cup 2027 arrives, Virat and Rohit Sharma will be close to 40, and that’s why their form, fitness, and consistency will be more important than ever to remain part of the Indian cricket team for the next two years at least.

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Indian selectors and team management are clear that maintaining match fitness is very important for them. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has already made it clear that all centrally contracted players should participate in domestic cricket when they are free from national duty.

At the press conference announcing squads for the Australia tour, Agarkar has openly said that they are expecting both Kohli and Rohit to play in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic 50-over tournament, ahead of the ODI series against New Zealand in January 2026.

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He was even noncommittal over their chances for the ICC World Cup 2027. But recently, India’s newly appointed captain, Shubman Gill, said that both Rohit and Kohli are still in the mix, and the team will need their experience and skill at the mega event in 2027 on the African continent.

Notably, Kohli last played List A cricket for Delhi in 2010. On the other hand, Rohit has not featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy since 2018. Their involvement in domestic cricket will not only help them regain match sharpness but also send a strong message about their commitment to staying fit and competitive, as they will be closely watched.

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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma must play the Vijay Hazare Trophy or risk losing India spot

Meanwhile, it is being said that Virat and Rohit’s future is safe until they play under the rules, meaning the rules set by the BCCI and the selectors. In the past, BCCI dropped Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan from the Indian side, and they were not even given the central contracts after they ignored their instructions to play domestic cricket for their respective teams.

A Revsportz journalist revealed that Virat and Rohit are likely to face the same consequences if they refuse to play in the upcoming Vijay Hazare trophy; otherwise, their future with Team India is safe for a longer time. They are also in the mix for the ICC World Cup 2027.

However, if they ignore the selectors’ warning, then the Australia series might be their last dance. Additionally, Virat and Rohit Sharma decide themselves to finish their careers in Australia or in the home series against New Zealand; they can take their own call.

But the former Indian captains were clearly instructed by the team management and BCCI that they would have to play domestic cricket to stay in contention for India selection.