‘Rohit and Virat wants to play 2027 World Cup but…’: ROKO gets fresh warning in Shubman Gill and Gambhir era for…

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli aim to play the 2027 World Cup, but BCCI’s strict new policy under Shubman Gill-Gautam Gambhir era warns — performance, not reputation, ensures selection.

Published date india.com Published: October 6, 2025 3:49 PM IST
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'Rohit and Virat wants to play 2027 World Cup but...': ROKO gets fresh warning in Shubman Gill and Gambhir era for...

New Delhi: A new wave of change is sweeping through Indian cricket. First, the BCCI demonstrated its confidence in youth by appointing Shubman Gill as Team India’s captain, and now, the board has taken a firm stance against two of its veteran stars — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The board’s message is clear: if these two veterans don’t play domestic cricket, they will not be included in the squad for the 2027 World Cup.

‘One Rule for All’ – Ajit Agarkar’s Statement

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated clearly in a press conference that selection will now be based solely on performance, not on name or experience. He clarified, “Every player must participate in domestic tournaments when they are out of international cricket. This rule applies to everyone.” Agarkar also added that the Vijay Hazare Trophy and other domestic competitions will now be the primary criteria for selection. This indicates that even star players will now have to secure their place on the field.

No More ‘Rest,’ Performance Is What’s Needed Now

Over the past few years, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have often been seen resting or taking breaks, while younger players have been toiling in the domestic circuit. But now the tide has turned — the BCCI has made it clear that no player, no matter how big a name they are, can stay away from domestic cricket.

The excuse of “rest” will no longer be accepted; performance on home soil will be the real ticket to selection.

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The Path to the 2027 World Cup Is Difficult but Possible

Both Rohit and Virat have now retired from Test and T20 cricket and are focusing solely on ODIs. But now, to secure a place in the 2027 World Cup, they will have to prove themselves again with their game. The BCCI’s message is clear — “Performance, not seniority, is the way back into the team.” By appointing Shubman Gill as captain, the board has set the tone for the future — Team India will now be a team of young and fit players.

Story Highlights

  1. The BCCI warned Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to play domestic cricket.
  2. Selector Ajit Agarkar stated that selection will now be entirely performance-based.
  3. The era of “rest” and “break” is over; the same rules apply to all players.
  4. Senior players will have to prove themselves again for the 2027 World Cup.

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