BCCI Warned of ODI’s Decline Post Kohli-Rohit Era

Veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced concern about the future of One Day International (ODI) cricket, predicting a possible decline after the 2027 World Cup. With stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma likely to retire by then, Ashwin believes the format risks losing its relevance in a world increasingly dominated by T20 leagues and Test cricket.

The 39-year-old off-spinner, speaking on Thursday, said that despite his passion for the game, he finds it tough to stay engaged with domestic ODI tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy, in contrast to the excitement generated by the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).

“I’m genuinely worried about the future of ODIs after 2027. The interest and scheduling patterns suggest the format is being squeezed out,” Ashwin remarked.

ODIs Losing Space Amid T20 Boom

Ashwin highlighted a growing imbalance in the international cricket calendar. Many recent tours, he noted, include more T20 matches and fewer ODIs — a trend he finds concerning.

For instance, New Zealand’s upcoming India tour features five T20s but only three ODIs, reflecting how the shortest format is now prioritized for audience engagement and commercial appeal.

“We need to ask what fans want to see. There’s still a place for Test cricket because of its legacy, but ODIs are struggling to hold that same identity,” Ashwin added.

Stars Like Kohli and Rohit Keep ODIs Alive

Ashwin acknowledged that the presence of big names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma still draws viewership to domestic 50-over tournaments. Their participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy recently sparked renewed spectator interest, proving that familiar faces continue to sustain fan enthusiasm.

“When Rohit and Virat play, people come to watch. The game may be bigger than individuals, but sometimes star players bring visibility. Without them, the format risks fading,” he said.

Ashwin Urges ICC to Fix Overcrowded Calendar

Critiquing the International Cricket Council (ICC), Ashwin argued that excessive tournaments dilute the value of major events. With back-to-back T20 and ODI World Cups, he believes the excitement surrounding global competitions is fading.

“The ICC is organizing too many tournaments for revenue. Look at FIFA — its World Cup every four years retains its prestige. Cricket needs that balance,” he explained.

Ashwin further warned that oversaturation could drain fan interest, especially when marquee teams like India face lesser-known sides such as USA or Namibia in early group stages.

ODIs Need Redefinition to Survive

Concluding his remarks, Ashwin suggested that the ODI World Cup should be staged every four years to preserve its importance, while domestic limited-overs tournaments require marquee player participation to stay relevant.

As the cricketing landscape evolves, Ashwin’s words spark a pressing debate — can the 50-over format adapt and endure in an increasingly T20-centric era?

Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and KL Rahul are set to bring star power to the domestic circuit, confirming their participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy this January as a tune-up for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

The move aligns with a BCCI mandate requiring centrally contracted players to feature in domestic cricket when available. Their return provides critical match practice and a significant boost to the 50-over tournament's profile.

Stars Confirm Availability and Schedules

According to reports, the players have informed their respective state associations of their availability for specific matches before linking up with the national team.

The following table outlines their expected schedules:

| Player | State Team | Expected Matches (January) | Opponents |

| Shubman Gill | Punjab | 3rd & 6th | Sikkim, Goa |

| Ravindra Jadeja | Saurashtra | 6th & 8th | Services, Gujarat |

| KL Rahul | Karnataka | 3rd & 6th | Tripura, Rajasthan |

| Virat Kohli | Delhi | 6th | Railways |

For Shubman Gill, this domestic stint follows his recent omission from India's T20 World Cup squad, making these matches an important opportunity for him. After his games for Punjab, he is expected to join the Indian squad in Baroda around January 7-8 ahead of the first New Zealand ODI on January 11.

BCCI's Domestic Mandate in Full Effect

The participation of these stars is part of a broader pattern this Vijay Hazare Trophy season, underscoring the BCCI's enforced policy. Earlier in the tournament, other Indian internationals like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also fulfilled their domestic commitments.

Virat Kohli has been a standout, opting to play a third match for Delhi on January 6 against Railways, exceeding the reported minimum requirement. He was in stellar form in his first two outings, scoring 131 and 77.

Rohit Sharma featured in Mumbai's first two games, scoring a blazing 155, before concluding his scheduled stint.

Rishabh Pant has committed to playing the entire season for Delhi, providing consistent leadership.

The policy has exceptions for workload management, with pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah being rested as a precaution.

Tournament in Full Swing with Other Key Returns

The Vijay Hazare Trophy action continues strongly. On December 31, Yashasvi Jaiswal returned to competitive cricket for Mumbai against Goa after recovering from acute gastroenteritis that caused him to miss the first three matches. Mumbai's coach noted that the presence of international pros significantly boosts the morale and learning environment for the entire squad.

The influx of top-tier talent into the Vijay Hazare Trophy strengthens the domestic structure and offers fans a rare chance to see their heroes up close in state colors. It also sets the stage for a well-prepared Indian team as they gear up to face New Zealand.

Vijay Hazare Trophy Day 1 Turns Historic

The Vijay Hazare Trophy Day 1 delivered one of the most explosive starts in Indian domestic cricket history, as records fell across venues on Wednesday. A staggering 22 centuries were scored in just 18 matches, including a rare double century, making it the most tons ever scored on a single day of the tournament.

The previous record of 19 centuries, achieved in December 2021 and again in January 2025, was comprehensively broken, underlining the growing dominance of batters in modern List-A cricket.

Swastik Samal Leads, Suryavanshi Shines Bright

Odisha batter Swastik Samal emerged as the top scorer of the day with a magnificent 212-run double century, even though his team ended up on the losing side. Close behind him was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who smashed 190 runs, announcing himself as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket.

Experts believe performances like these reflect how domestic tournaments are becoming crucial platforms for discovering future international stars.

Bihar Script Unmatched Batting Records

The match between Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh rewrote the List-A record books completely.

Key highlights include:

Bihar scored 574/6 in 50 overs, the highest total ever in men’s List-A cricket.

This is only the second instance of a 500+ score in List-A history.

Three batters scored centuries in one innings for the first time in Vijay Hazare Trophy history:

Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 190

Sakibul Gani – 124

Ayush Loharuka – 116

Bihar hit 38 sixes, the most in any men’s List-A innings.

In contrast, Arunachal Pradesh bowler Mibom Mosu endured a forgettable outing, conceding 116 runs in just 9 overs, the most expensive spell ever in men’s List-A cricket.

Karnataka Register Biggest Successful Chase

Another major talking point on Vijay Hazare Trophy Day 1 was Karnataka’s record-breaking chase. They successfully hunted down a massive 413-run target against Jharkhand, the highest successful chase in the tournament’s history, highlighting the depth and firepower of Karnataka’s batting lineup.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Creates Global Records at 14

Suryavanshi’s innings was not just about runs, but history:

Fastest 150 in men’s List-A cricket – off just 59 balls, breaking AB de Villiers’ record.

Fastest List-A century by an Indian – in 32 balls (third fastest overall).

Youngest centurion in men’s List-A cricket at 14 years and 272 days.

Former cricketers have hailed this as a “once-in-a-generation performance.”

Why This Matters Now

The extraordinary start to the tournament highlights how the Vijay Hazare Trophy is evolving into a high-impact competition where young talent, fearless batting, and record-breaking feats are becoming the norm. With IPL scouts and national selectors closely watching, these performances could shape India’s cricketing future.

From 22 centuries in a day to world-record totals and teenage brilliance, Vijay Hazare Trophy Day 1 has set a new benchmark in Indian domestic cricket — a day that will be remembered for years to come.

Kohli & Rohit Announce Return with Spectacular Centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy Opener

In a sensational display of form ahead of the international season, superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma marked their much-anticipated return to domestic cricket with thunderous centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Wednesday. Both icons powered their teams, Delhi and Mumbai respectively, to commanding victories in their tournament openers.

The simultaneous knocks sent a strong message to national selectors and fans, underscoring their unwavering class and match-winning prowess even in the domestic arena.

Kohli’s Masterclass Anchors Delhi’s Chase

Playing for Delhi after a 15-year gap in the tournament, Virat Kohli crafted a flawless 131 runs off just 101 balls against Andhra Pradesh in Bengaluru. Chasing a steep target of 299, Kohli’s innings, laced with 11 fours and 3 sixes, was a lesson in controlled aggression. He forged crucial partnerships, notably with Priyansh Arya (74) and Nitish Rana (77), to guide Delhi to a four-wicket win with over 12 overs to spare.

During his knock, Kohli also crossed the monumental milestone of 16,000 runs in List-A cricket, becoming only the second Indian after Sachin Tendulkar to achieve the feat.

Rohit’s Blitzkrieg Flattens Sikkim

At the same time in Jaipur, Rohit Sharma turned the clock back with a devastating assault on the Sikkim bowling attack. The ‘Hitman’ smashed a breathtaking 155 off a mere 94 deliveries, including 18 fours and 9 sixes, to help Mumbai chase down 237 in just 30.3 overs. He brought up his century in 61 balls, marking his first Vijay Hazare Trophy ton in 17 years, and fittingly won the Player of the Match award.

His innings was a stark reminder of his destructive capabilities at the top of the order, providing ideal preparation for the upcoming ODI series.

Why This Performance Matters Now

With a crucial three-match ODI series against New Zealand on the horizon, these knocks are timely. They are not just runs; they are a statement of intent, sharpness, and hunger. For team management, seeing both pillars of the batting lineup in prime form, adjusting to different match situations, is the best possible scenario.

A Day of Records

Beyond the two icons, the day witnessed historic events. Bihar’s 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed a 36-ball hundred, becoming the youngest centurion in men's List-A cricket, and propelled his team to a world-record total of 574/6.

Conclusion: A Statement Made

The Vijay Hazare Trophy opening day was decisively owned by India’s modern greats. Kohli’s chase-master classic and Rohit’s explosive opener have set a electrifying tone for the tournament. For Indian cricket fans, it was a perfect exhibition of why these two remain indispensable, their brilliance transcending the platform and setting the stage for the international challenges ahead.

Virat Kohli Returns to Nets for Vijay Hazare Trophy, Set to Play Under Captain Rishabh Pant

In a major boost for domestic cricket, star batter Virat Kohli has returned to rigorous training ahead of the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. A viral video from Sunday shows the former India captain sweating it out in the nets at the Reliance Jio Stadium in Alibaug, Mumbai, signaling his readiness for the 50-over tournament.

This move comes as the BCCI has made it mandatory for all national team members to participate in at least two rounds of the List A event. Kohli’s presence in the Delhi squad, led by wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, adds significant star power to the domestic competition and serves as crucial match practice before India’s next international assignment.

Kohli and Pant Headline Strong Delhi Squad

Delhi’s 20-member squad for the opening games of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season has been headlined by the dual inclusion of Virat Kohli and skipper Rishabh Pant. DDCA president Rohan Jaitley confirmed Kohli’s availability on December 2. Pant will lead the side in their Group D matches against Andhra and Gujarat, with all fixtures to be played in Bengaluru starting December 24.

The squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, also featuring veteran pacer Ishant Sharma. Interestingly, Sharma and Kohli made their Delhi debuts together in the 2006 Ranji Trophy.

Strategic Rehearsal Before New Zealand ODIs

For Virat Kohli, this tournament is more than just a mandate; it's a strategic rehearsal. His next international commitment is a three-match ODI series against New Zealand beginning January 11. Kohli is entering the tournament in scintillating form, having smashed two centuries and a fifty in India's recent 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa.

This Vijay Hazare Trophy stint will allow him to fine-tune his game in a competitive environment. His last appearance for Delhi was in a Ranji Trophy match against Railways in January.

A Win for Domestic Cricket

The decision by top stars like Kohli and Pant to participate actively in the Vijay Hazare Trophy is a significant win for the domestic cricket structure. It not only elevates the tournament's profile but also provides young players in the Delhi squad with an unparalleled opportunity to share the dressing room with modern greats.

For fans, it’s a rare chance to see these icons in action on the domestic circuit before they resume national duties.

Delhi Squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26:

Rishabh Pant (c), Virat Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Navdeep Saini, Ayush Badoni, Arpit Rana, Yash Dhull, Sarthak Ranjan, Priyansh Arya, Tejasvi Dahiya, Nitish Rana, Hrithik Shokeen, Harsh Tyagi, Simarjeet Singh, Prince Yadav, Divij Mehra, Ayush Doseja, Vaibhav Kandpal, Rohan Rana.

Stand-by: Anuj Rawat.

The stage is set for an exciting domestic season, with all eyes on how the superstar duo of Kohli and Pant propels Delhi's campaign.

Rohit, Kohli Return to Domestic Action in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 is set to begin on December 24, and Indian cricket fans are in for a major boost as star players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to domestic cricket for at least two matches. The development follows a recent BCCI directive making it mandatory for centrally contracted players to participate in domestic tournaments unless ruled out due to injury.

This move is being seen as a strong step to strengthen India’s domestic structure and reconnect senior players with grassroots cricket.

Rohit Sharma to Feature for Mumbai, Shardul Thakur Named Captain

Former India captain Rohit Sharma will play the opening two matches for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025. Mumbai will face Sikkim on December 24 and Uttarakhand on December 26 in Jaipur.

Key updates from Mumbai camp include:

 Shardul Thakur appointed as Mumbai captain

 Ajinkya Rahane rested for initial matches due to a hamstring issue

 Yashasvi Jaiswal to join later after medical clearance

 Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan included after impressive SMAT performances

Mumbai are placed in Elite Group C along with Punjab, Maharashtra, Goa and others, with all group matches scheduled in Jaipur.

According to Mumbai selectors, all India players will be accommodated as and when they become available, keeping national commitments in mind.

Virat Kohli Included, Rishabh Pant to Lead Delhi

In another big boost to domestic cricket, Virat Kohli has been named in Delhi’s 20-member squad for the first two matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant has been appointed captain of the Delhi team.

Delhi will play in Group D, with matches scheduled between December 24 and January 8. Their opening games are against Andhra and Gujarat at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Other notable updates from Delhi squad:

 Ishant Sharma and Navdeep Saini available

 Harshit Rana to join after T20I national duty

 Pant and Kohli’s full availability subject to India’s ODI series starting January 11

Why This Matters Now

The participation of senior stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 highlights the growing importance of domestic cricket in India. With India’s next international assignment starting in mid-January against New Zealand, this tournament serves as a vital match-practice platform.

Experts believe this move will:

 Improve domestic competition quality

 Inspire young players

 Strengthen India’s bench strength

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 gets underway, the spotlight will firmly be on how India’s biggest stars perform in domestic colours.

With Pant leading Delhi and Shardul guiding Mumbai, the tournament promises high-quality cricket and renewed fan interest, making it one of the most anticipated domestic seasons in recent years.