India’s Senior Stars Eye ODI Comeback Through Domestic Performances
Indian domestic cricket is set to witness a major surge in attention as former India captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been named in the Mumbai and Delhi squads respectively for the opening matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The inclusion of two of India’s most decorated cricketers has added star power to the prestigious 50-over domestic competition and underlined the importance of domestic performances in the national selection pathway.
Both Rohit and Kohli have been advised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India to remain active in domestic cricket as part of their preparation and assessment for future One Day International (ODI) selections. With the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, the tournament is being viewed as a crucial platform for experienced players to demonstrate form, fitness, and match readiness.
Mumbai and Delhi Finalize Squads for Opening Fixtures
Mumbai’s squad announcement confirmed Rohit Sharma’s availability for the team’s first two group-stage matches, which will be played against Sikkim on December 24 and Uttarakhand on December 26 in Jaipur. Rohit’s return to competitive domestic action in the 50-over format is expected to draw significant attention, especially given his limited appearances in domestic tournaments over the past decade.
Meanwhile, Delhi have also named Virat Kohli in their squad for the opening two fixtures of the tournament. Delhi will face Andhra and Gujarat on the same dates in Bengaluru. Kohli’s presence adds experience and leadership to a Delhi side that features a strong mix of youth and seasoned international players.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Ruled Out of Early Matches Due to Illness
While Mumbai fans will be delighted by Rohit Sharma’s inclusion, there was disappointing news regarding opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young batting sensation has informed the Mumbai Cricket Association that he has not fully recovered from acute gastroenteritis and will miss the early phase of the tournament.
Jaiswal’s absence means Mumbai will need to reshuffle their top order for the opening matches. However, team management remains optimistic about his return later in the competition, depending on medical clearance and recovery progress.
Rishabh Pant to Lead Delhi, Strong Support Cast Named
Apart from Kohli, Delhi’s squad for the first two games boasts several prominent names. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been appointed captain of the side, marking another significant leadership responsibility for the dynamic left-hander. Ayush Badoni has been named vice-captain, reflecting the selectors’ confidence in his growing maturity.
Delhi’s pace attack will be spearheaded by experienced fast bowler Ishant Sharma, alongside Navdeep Saini and Harshit Rana. Rana, who was recently involved in India’s T20 series against South Africa, is yet to confirm the exact date of his availability to the selectors, creating some uncertainty around Delhi’s bowling combinations.
Domestic Cricket Gains Importance After T20I and Test Retirements
The return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to domestic cricket carries added significance in the context of their recent career decisions. Both legends retired from T20 Internationals following India’s triumphant campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup. Subsequently, they also brought down the curtain on their Test careers after the 2024-25 tour of Australia.
With T20Is and Tests no longer part of their international journey, the 50-over format remains the only arena where the two superstars are active for India. This makes the Vijay Hazare Trophy a critical competition, not just for domestic teams, but also for the Indian team management assessing experienced players ahead of major ICC events.
Rare Domestic Appearances Highlight Commitment
Last season, both Rohit and Kohli featured in just one Ranji Trophy match each. Kohli’s appearance for Delhi earlier this year marked his return to domestic red-ball cricket after a gap of 12 years, while Rohit represented Mumbai in a Ranji game after nearly a decade. Their renewed participation in domestic tournaments reflects a clear shift towards staying match-ready through the Indian domestic circuit.
Selectors and fans alike will closely monitor their performances, particularly their ability to handle long innings, strike rotation, and adaptability to different conditions factors that remain vital in ODI cricket.
Road to the 2027 ODI World Cup Begins at Home
As India gradually builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy are once again becoming central to selection conversations. The presence of senior icons alongside emerging talent provides an ideal competitive environment, blending experience with youthful energy.
For Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, these matches are more than just domestic fixtures they represent an opportunity to reinforce their relevance in India’s ODI plans. For Mumbai and Delhi, their inclusion significantly boosts morale and raises expectations as the tournament gets underway.
With packed schedules, high-profile names, and strong narratives, the Vijay Hazare Trophy promises to be one of the most closely followed domestic seasons in recent years.
