BCCI eyes Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma comeback in August; Gautam Gambhir’s nod crucial

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could play in August. (Photo BCCI)

Although there are many ifs and buts, it is possible that stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may return to the Indian team in August. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and their conversations with chief selector Ajit Agarkar and current head coach Gautam Gambhir will determine everything. Rohit and Kohli may return to the familiar India blues if the BCCI approves Sri Lanka Cricket's (SLC) plan to host a brief white-ball series next month.

The BCCI has reportedly been contacted by SLC to request that they fill the void created by the cancellation of India's August 17–31 tour of Bangladesh. The structure of the canceled Bangladesh series, which has now been moved to 2026 due to increased regional security concerns and scheduling difficulties, is mirrored in the proposed replacement, which consists of six matches—three ODIs and three T20Is.

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The suggestion from the Sri Lankan board has reportedly not received a formal response from the BCCI yet.  Only after significant consultations is a final decision anticipated, particularly in relation to the Asia Cup, which is still requiring government approval.

On Tuesday, July 9, an official with knowledge of the developments told Cricbuzz, “There is a request pending from the SLC, but we have not decided on it yet. We will have to see the situation with the Asia Cup. Everything is interlinked.”

Two of India's most renowned cricketers of the past ten years, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, may make their ODI comebacks if the Sri Lanka series proceeds. Both players have retired from Test and T20I formats to concentrate only on One-Day Internationals.

The door is open for their inclusion because of their existing format-specific availability and the fact that the proposed series is a white-ball assignment. Due to the uncertainty surrounding future tournaments, Rohit and Kohli have not participated in India's current Test tour of England, and it is still unclear when they will make their next scheduled ODI outings.

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The BCCI's position on the Asia Cup is a crucial element affecting the possible Sri Lanka tour. The India-hosted continental championship, which is set for September 17–27, is currently awaiting official government sanction because of geopolitical concerns about Pakistan's participation.

While in London for the Lord's Test, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is anticipated to talk with senior players, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar on the Asia Cup and the Sri Lanka tour. The BCCI's ultimate response to SLC's proposal will probably be influenced by these conversations.

Due to "international commitments and scheduling convenience," both cricket bodies decided to postpone the initial Bangladesh tour until 2026. Nonetheless, sources have confirmed that security considerations were a major factor in the postponement, particularly given the escalating tensions in the area.

If the Sri Lanka series happens, it will not only help the BCCI make the most of the August window, but it may also help Rohit and Kohli, get some game time.

Indian cricket fans may have to wait a little while longer, but there are indications that they may get to see two of the game's contemporary greats again next month.