Virat Kohli And Rohit Sharma Set To Return To Domestic Circuit: Report

India’s senior cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have reportedly altered their stance and agreed to comply with Ajit Agarkar’s terms, marking a significant development in Indian cricket’s approach to workload management. As per a PTI report, both veterans are “ready to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before the New Zealand ODIs,” a move that underlines their commitment to staying match-fit and aligning with the national selectors’ expectations.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic 50-over competition, begins on December 24, and both batters are expected to participate in at least three to four matches.

Agarkar’s Stand on Domestic Participation

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has been firm in his stance that “whenever players are available, they should turn up for domestic cricket.” His directive comes as part of a broader plan to ensure India’s top players maintain rhythm and match readiness outside international commitments. With the selection committee backing this policy, Kohli and Rohit’s inclusion in the tournament is viewed as a positive signal to younger players and the domestic circuit.

Sources suggest that Agarkar believes participation in domestic tournaments not only helps in form retention but also strengthens India’s bench depth. His insistence that “form should be earned through performance, not reputation” seems to have influenced the seniors’ decision to make themselves available.

Schedule and Historical Context

India’s international calendar provides a convenient window for this return. There is a five-week gap between India’s last ODI against South Africa on December 6 and the first ODI versus New Zealand on January 11, giving both stalwarts time to feature in the domestic 50-over league.

This would mark Virat Kohli’s first Vijay Hazare appearance since 2010, when he represented Delhi, while Rohit Sharma last played in the competition in 2018 for Mumbai. The return of two of India’s greatest modern-day batters to the domestic stage is being seen as a morale booster for state teams and fans alike.

Their participation will not only enhance the tournament’s visibility but also underline a message of accountability and professionalism. By aligning with Agarkar’s policy, both Kohli and Rohit seem to reaffirm their intent to lead by example — bridging the gap between India’s senior and emerging cricketing talent.