Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed serious concerns about Virat Kohli's future in the Indian team following reports of Rohit Sharma's exclusion. Ashwin warned the 37-year-old batter that he could face similar treatment from the selection committee if he fails to remain at the top of his game.
India will take on England in the third and final ODI of the ongoing series at Lord's on Sunday, July 19. According to The Indian Express, the team management and selectors informed Rohit that they would move on from him. He scored 37 runs in two ODIs at an average of 18.50 and a strike rate of 54.41.
Ravichandran Ashwin Warns Virat Kohli Amid Rohit Sharma's Retirement Speculation
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has reportedly informed Rohit Sharma that the BCCI wants to back younger opening options, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, over the next year. Notably, Rohit had shown decent form and fitness before his recent slump across eight matches.
Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin said that no veteran player's place in the team can be considered safe. Ashwin added that Virat Kohli has to remain at the top of his game to stay in the scheme of things.
“The way this is going, Virat Kohli also has to be on top of his game, unfortunately. He’s batting beautifully. I’ve never seen Virat bat like this. I’d love to have him in the squad in South Africa, but he has to stay on top of it. I don’t know, I hope it’s not the case, but seriously, Rohit hasn’t been too bad either.”
They Should Have a Proper Conversation - Ravichandran Ashwin
In May 2025, reports emerged that the team management had decided to drop Rohit Sharma from the Test squad, prompting his retirement. Virat Kohli also announced his retirement from Test cricket within a few days of Rohit's decision.
Ravichandran Ashwin said replacing senior players with younger ones is part of the transition process. However, the veteran spinner emphasized that iconic players who have served the nation for decades deserve to be treated with the utmost professional respect.
“Anyone can be dropped—that’s the selector, captain, and coach’s job. If someone is dropped, there’s no problem with that. You can ask, ‘What can I do?’ If it’s not working, then we won’t drop you? If it’s age, then we won’t drop you? My point is, there should be a direct communication channel, done properly."
"The problem is that if you look at big corporations, layoffs happen. When someone at a senior level who has contributed a lot to the company is let go, they should have a proper conversation. If someone has performed for two decades for the country, achieved so much, at least talk to them properly, show them the path with dignity.”
Virat Kohli Will Be In Action On July 19 At Lord's Cricket Ground
Virat Kohli, who missed the previous three-match home ODI series due to a hamstring injury, returned for the series against England. The star batter was dismissed for five runs in the opening game but bounced back with 65 off 66 deliveries in the second ODI in Cardiff.
Kohli has scored 310 runs in his last five ODIs at an impressive average of 62 and a strike rate of 103.33, including one century and two half-centuries. The selection pressure is high as India finalize their plans for the 2027 World Cup in Africa.
Kohli will return to action in the third ODI at Lord's on Sunday, July 19. The veteran will be keen to deliver an impressive performance and help India secure the series victory.
