The unease surrounding the futures of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has added a new twist to the ongoing discussions within Indian cricket. According to NDTV sources, the rapport between Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir has cooled noticeably, largely due to disagreements linked to Kohli’s career plans and workload approach.
While Rohit Sharma has already confirmed his participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy and expressed readiness to represent Mumbai—as well as having played the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy to stay match-ready—Kohli has reportedly declined to take part in the domestic one-day competition.
Kohli is believed to hold the view that he does not require extensive preparation through domestic fixtures, a stance that places the BCCI in a difficult position. Officials are reluctant to grant exceptions for any player, regardless of seniority or stature, as it would set a precedent and send mixed signals to the rest of the squad.
A source privy to the developments told NDTV, “The concern revolves around the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kohli simply doesn’t want to play it. When Rohit is participating as well, how can there be a separate rule for someone else? What explanation do we give to the rest of the players?”
Both Gambhir and the selection committee have been strong advocates of senior players taking part in domestic cricket whenever available. It was this very push from the board that had prompted both Kohli and Rohit to play Ranji Trophy matches after India’s disappointing Test series in Australia.
Following the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, Kohli hinted at his approach: relying on mental clarity, physical fitness, and years of experience rather than extensive match practice. “I’ve never believed in heavy preparation. My game has always been mental. As long as I’m fit and visualising my batting well, I’m comfortable,” he said after the match.
In an effort to ease the growing friction, the BCCI has reportedly sent national selector Pragyan Ojha to Raipur—the venue for the second ODI—to hold discussions with both Kohli and Gambhir and attempt to restore balance within the team environment.