As the cricketing world looks towards the future, the spotlight is on the dynamic duo of Indian cricket, Captain Rohit Sharma and former skipper Virat Kohli. Aged 36 and 35, respectively, the seasoned campaigners are at a juncture where crucial decisions about their T20 international future await.
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has given Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli the freedom to shape their T20 international destinies. With the next T20 World Cup looming in June 2024, scheduled for the USA and the West Indies, the BCCI source has affirmed that the two stalwarts can choose whether to participate in T20s and the upcoming World Cup.
“Rohit and Virat can play T20s and the T20 World Cup next year if they want”, a BCCI source told Times Now.
Recent reports have hinted at a potential turning point in Rohit Sharma’s T20 journey, suggesting that he might step away from T20 internationals. There are speculations about Hardik Pandya being considered for long-term captaincy. However, the BCCI source asserts that decisions regarding Rohit and Virat cannot be abrupt. The source underlines their status as the highest run-scorers in the recently concluded ODI World Cup, emphasizing that the players should decide their careers.
“We can’t remove the highest run-scorer of the ODI World Cup. They are both our biggest players”, the source said.
The ODI World Cup showcased the batting prowess of Virat Kohli, who emerged as the tournament’s top-scorer with a remarkable game of 11 matches. Rohit Sharma wasn’t far behind, finishing as the second wasn’t run-scorer with 597 runs. The BCCI source acknowledges their contributions, labelling them as the most prominent players for the Indian cricket team.
The BCCI has outlined a precise leadership scenario based on Rohit Sharma’s decision. If Rohit stays away from T20 internationals, Hardik Pandya will take the reins as the long-term captain. Conversely, if Rohit opts to continue, Hardik will serve as his deputy, highlighting the strategic planning of the Indian cricket board.
Amidst these deliberations, India is set to face Australia in a T20I series, with the first match scheduled in Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam. The outcome of these matches could potentially influence the discussions surrounding the leadership and playing combinations for the future.
The BCCI’s stance remains supportive, emphasizing the need for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to have the freedom to make decisions about their T20 international careers. Recognizing their stature and impact on Indian cricket, the board trusts the players to make informed choices aligned with their aspirations and physical readiness.
