'We won’t ask anyone to retire': BCCI vice-president breaks silence on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma retirement rumours

BCCI vice-president breaks silence on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirement rumours. (Photo: BCCI)

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has rubbished speculation regarding a possible farewell series for India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma and senior batter Virat Kohli during the upcoming Australia tour in October. He emphasized that such discussions are premature, stating, “we will cross the bridge when we get there.”

Following India’s recent Test series in England, there were reports suggesting that the management might decide on the future of the two veterans after the three ODIs against Australia from October 19 to 25. However, Shukla clarified that both players remain integral to India’s ODI plans as the team looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup.

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“They haven’t retired, haven’t they? Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are both playing One-Dayers. They haven’t taken retirement, so why are you talking and worrying about their farewell? Retirement from two formats, that’s the phases, but they are still playing ODIs. Don’t worry this much. BCCI policy is quite clear; we won’t ask anyone to retire, they have to make their decisions themselves. He has to take that call, and we respect that,” Shukla explained in a video released by the UPT20 League.

What’s next for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Shri Rajeev Shukla @ShuklaRajiv (Vice President, BCCI; Director, Asian Cricket Council; MP, Rajya Sabha) shares his thoughts in a very special episode of Long Off Lounge.

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He further added, “We’ll cross the bridge when we come to it. You are already arranging their farewell! Virat Kohli is very fit, and Rohit Sharma plays very well. Why are you worried about their farewell?”

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The two stalwarts last featured for India in the Champions Trophy in the UAE, where India lifted their first ICC ODI trophy in 12 years. Kohli stood out with a match-winning innings in the semi-final and a century against Pakistan in the group stage, while Rohit’s brilliant 76 in the final against New Zealand sealed India’s title win in Dubai.