Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are slated to feature in India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia in October 2025.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Gear Up Amid Uncertainty Over Future
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, now representing India only in ODIs, are expected to feature in the three-match series against Australia in October 2025. Yet, their international futures remain uncertain. Reports suggest that team management, led by chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir, may overlook the duo for the 2027 World Cup. If they wish to chase the World Cup dream in South Africa, Rohit and Kohli could be asked to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Amid speculation, preparations are underway. India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma is among seven players set to undergo pre-fitness tests at the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. Joining him are Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammad Siraj, and Shardul Thakur. The fitness assessments include the Yo-Yo Test and the Dexa Scan to measure bone density.
This marks Rohit’s first fitness evaluation since retiring from Tests. Meanwhile, clarity regarding Virat Kohli’s fitness test remains elusive following his May retirement from the format.
BCCI reacts
A BCCI official confirmed to the Indian Express that all centrally contracted players must undergo pre-season fitness tests, in line with board guidelines.
“All players have to undergo a pre-season fitness Test, it’s mandatory as per the contract. These tests help the COE understand the areas the players have to work on or where they are lacking. As there was a big break (after the England Test series), the players were given sets of exercises to do at home,” the official said.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from Tests ahead of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England and stepped away from T20Is following India’s 2024 World Cup triumph. The team’s strength and conditioning coach, Adrian le Roux, has recommended incorporating the rugby-inspired Bronco Test into the fitness regimen, which will be added later in the season.
Ahead of the Asia Cup starting September 9, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav, have already completed the pre-season fitness assessments.
