Virat Kohli Backed for India ODI Role, Rohit Sharma Under Selector Scrutiny

The All India Senior Men’s Selection Committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, is set to meet in Guwahati on Tuesday to pick India’s squad for the one-off Test and three ODIs against Afghanistan in June. While Virat Kohli’s ODI place is confirmed, the selectors remain cautious about Rohit Sharma, with multiple tough decisions on the horizon.

Kohli’s ODI Role Solidified

Virat Kohli has been backed as India’s ODI mainstay, with reports confirming his inclusion for the home series against Afghanistan next month. The former India captain has made a strong case for himself with another brilliant IPL season, reinforcing his value in the 50-over format. Both Kohli and Rohit have retired from Tests and T20Is, making ODIs their sole international commitment.

Rohit Sharma Under Close Watch

Rohit Sharma’s fitness is a growing concern for the selection panel. The opener suffered a toe injury during an IPL match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12, followed by a hamstring issue that delayed his return. Consequently, Rohit has featured in only 7 of MI’s 12 matches this IPL season.

Even when playing for Mumbai Indians, Rohit often operates as an Impact Player, meaning he does not field for the full 20 overs. This has raised questions among selectors about his ability to field for the entire 50 overs in ODIs. The committee is taking a cautious approach before confirming his return to the national squad.

Bumrah’s Workload Management

Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also under consideration, but selectors are unlikely to risk him for the Afghanistan series. With a limited-overs tour to England scheduled next month and Bumrah’s history of major injuries, the committee is prioritizing his long-term fitness. The short turnaround between the IPL final and the series adds to the cautious stance.

Selection Dilemmas and New Faces

The selection meeting will cover several key positions. Reports suggest the selectors are considering Devdutt Padikkal for the No. 3 spot in Test cricket after expressing dissatisfaction with incumbent Sai Sudharshan’s inconsistency. In the wicketkeeping department, Rishabh Pant’s position appears shaky; Sanju Samson is likely to replace him as the backup wicketkeeper in the ODI squad, with KL Rahul remaining the first-choice gloveman in the 50-over format.

Though Shreyas Iyer was earlier rumored to take over captaincy in ODIs and T20Is, that change does not appear imminent. Meanwhile, Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is set for his first Test call-up after a standout role in J&K’s maiden Ranji Trophy triumph earlier this year. Mohammed Shami is also being touted for a Test return. Pacer Prince Yadav, who impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the IPL this season, is likely to earn an ODI squad call-up.

Series Schedule

Following the IPL final on May 31, India will host Afghanistan for three ODIs and a Test match in June. The one-off Test will be played at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur from June 6. The ODI series begins on June 14 at Dharamsala, with subsequent matches in Lucknow (June 17) and Chennai (June 20). Both Kohli and Rohit are expected to feature in the ODIs.

The selectors face a balancing act, blending experience with emerging talent while managing fitness risks. The final squad announcements will reveal which bold calls have been made.