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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were at the center of the discussion when the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee gathered to select the teams for the Afghanistan series. For the three-match ODI series against the Afghanistan cricket team, both of the legends have retained their spots in the squad.
However, there was a certain range of consideration to put them out of the team. In the end, both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are picked for the One-Day International series as they are active in only one format.
The proposal was to rest Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The theory to snub them from the team was put on the table because of the workload management issue. Both of the former cricketers are active in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 with their respective franchises.
Rohit missed a few matches for the Mumbai Indians because of a hamstring injury, but Virat has been playing relentlessly for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. A source close to the team selection process discloses some crucial points from the discussion involving Ajit Agarkar to the media.
A source close to the team selection process reveals the truth
“The panel, including the chief selector, had a detailed discussion for the series versus Afghanistan. Both are playing regularly in their respective IPL matches. There was a possibility to give them rest. However, on second thought, they only play one format, and it's important to give them match time,” a source close to the selection talks informed Sports Tak.
There were at least two valid points against resting Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. There are multiple young stars in the newly shaped ODI squad. The presence of the two senior players will bring balance and help to create bonding between the players. Additionally, through the Afghanistan series, Virat and Rohit will get the opportunities to evaluate their performance and fitness as well.
“Also, it would be better for team bonding, especially the youngsters, who would gel around them, and it was the reason the panel decided not to rest them. Both Rohit and Virat can evaluate their performance and fitness as well in the home series,” it added.
Virat and Rohit's spots for the 2027 ODI World Cup are not secured yet
In the coming days, there will be talks around Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma again regarding the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup. As of now, there are no spots for the tournament secured. Discussions will be there when the tournament will approach closer. The selection of these two batters could be decided based on their forms and fitness statuses.
“World Cup is too far away, and nobody is permanently in or out of the scheme of things. Their selection and anyone else’s will depend on their form and fitness,” the source further informed.
So far in the IPL 2026 season, Rohit Sharma, who has missed six games due to a hamstring injury, has scored 268 runs at an average of 44.66 and a strike rate of 164.41. While Virat Kohli is maintaining a good form as an RCB opener. So far, in this IPL season, the batting maestro has claimed 542 runs at an average of 54.20 and a strike rate of 164.74.
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