“We Won’t Ask Them For Retire …” Said BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla on Possibly These Two Retirements

The Board of Control for Cricket in India,  Vice President Rajeev Shukla recently addressed all the possible news circulated that BCCI is planning to give farewell ODI Series to both Indian Cricket Stalwarts including the likes of- Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli .

He said while addressing the questions related to these two stalwarts in Indian Cricket where he said ” Virat and Rohit is still playing ODI Format and they have retired from Test and T20I Format and their series against Australia is not in any way we are planning to give them farewell as board we have already ensured that Players can play as long as they can and they would not be asked to leave until and unless they don’t decide to leave the format”

In Separate Capacity, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have confirmed their presence, they would want to play till 2027 World Cup.

They have shown eagerness to play Domestic Tournament considering they are in top notch form ahead of 2027 World Cup.

Rohit is still ODI Captain have already expressed his interest “My Dream is to play till 2027 World Cup and relieved old haunting memory of not winning 2023 World Cup where they lost against Australia in the final.

Virat Kohli on the other end is one of the stalwart when it comes to approaching ODI Cricket, with the amount of runs he has scored along with amassing 51 centuries in this format surpassing the Likes of Sachin Tendulkar.

” We will cross bridge when we come to it. You are already arranging their farewell. Virat Kohli is very fit, Rohit Sharma plays very well. Why you are worried about Farewell?: Said Shukla further.

India have yet to play ODI Cricket post Champions Trophy 2025 which they lifted together, Considering the fitness and experience these two posses when it comes to ODI Cricket is second to none.

Frequently Ask Question Related to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma responded by BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla : 

1. Is BCCI planning a farewell ODI series for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma?

Recently, several reports suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might organize a farewell series for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India’s biggest cricket icons. However, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has strongly dismissed such speculations. Addressing the media, Shukla clarified that the board has no such plans at the moment. He stressed that both Virat and Rohit continue to play ODI cricket and remain valuable members of the Indian team. Shukla added that the board’s policy has always been to allow players to decide their own future rather than forcing them out of any format. Thus, talks of a farewell series are premature and baseless.

2. What is the current status of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in international cricket?

Both stalwarts have retired from Test cricket and T20Is, but they continue to play a major role in ODI cricket. Rohit Sharma remains the captain of India’s ODI side, while Virat Kohli continues to be the team’s most reliable batter in the 50-over format. The duo recently played a crucial role in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, showcasing their hunger and match-winning ability. Despite the rumors, both legends are firmly committed to playing ODI cricket, and their immediate focus is on contributing to the Indian team until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

3. Have Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli spoken about their ODI future?

Yes, both players have made their intentions clear. Rohit Sharma has openly expressed that his “dream is to play till the 2027 World Cup.” He also mentioned that he wants to overcome the painful memory of the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia by leading India to glory in 2027. On the other hand, Virat Kohli, who already holds the record for 51 ODI centuries in this format. Both cricketers have shown eagerness to participate in domestic tournaments as well, underlining their focus on maintaining peak form ahead of the 2027 mega event.

4. How did Rajeev Shukla respond to questions about a potential farewell?

Shukla addressed the media with a mix of clarity and humor. He questioned why people were already arranging farewells for players who are still performing at the highest level. “Virat Kohli is very fit, Rohit Sharma plays very well. Why are you worried about farewell?” he remarked. Shukla further emphasized that the board would never ask a player to leave until they themselves decide to retire. This statement highlights BCCI’s respect for senior players and their contributions, making it clear that the careers of Rohit and Virat are still very much active in ODIs.

5. How significant are Kohli and Rohit for India’s ODI setup going forward?

The significance of these two legends cannot be overstated. Rohit Sharma, with his leadership and explosive batting, continues to set the tone at the top of the order. His captaincy experience is seen as vital for grooming the next generation of players. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli remains the backbone of India’s middle order. His consistency, fitness levels, and hunger for runs make him irreplaceable. Together, they bring a combination of experience, stability, and match-winning temperament that few other teams in world cricket can boast of. With the 2027 World Cup as their ultimate target, their role in shaping India’s journey will be crucial.

6. What impact did India’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory have on their ODI future?

India’s victory in the Champions Trophy 2025 has significantly boosted the morale of the team and reaffirmed the value of having Rohit and Virat in the squad. Both players played pivotal roles in ensuring India’s success in the tournament. The triumph served as proof that they still have the hunger and ability to perform at the biggest stage. Far from signaling an end, the Champions Trophy win has energized both stalwarts to set their sights on the next big goal: the 2027 World Cup. This victory also reinforced BCCI’s stance that there is no need to rush into any farewell decisions.

7. What lies ahead for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODIs?

Looking ahead, India does not have immediate ODI commitments post the Champions Trophy win, but the biggest goal for these stalwart players to win 2027 World Cup . Both players have indicated they are committed to this journey. Rohit, as captain, wants to finally lift an ODI World Cup trophy and erase the scars of 2023, while Virat continues to chase new records with every innings. Their decision to also feature in domestic cricket highlights their dedication to staying competitive. As long as they remain fit and in form, they will continue to be central figures in India’s ODI setup. 

Indian team would be next gearing Up for Asia Cup in T20I format which is receiving Huge Flak from Media considering India should not have played this event especially the current circumstances gone by but recent statement from Ministry of Sports have expressed their statement where they said ” India would take part any multilateral event which involves Pakistan, these two countries would not exchange in any way when it comes to Bilateral series also these two would not play on each other soil and they would play Cricket on Neutral Venue.

The most anticipated India and Pakistan is all set to take place on 14th September 2025 in Dubai based on how fixtures related to Asia Cup is decided, it seems these two might play each other twice or Thrice in the tournament.

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