BCCI Rejects Farewell Series Talk for Kohli and Rohit: “They’re Still Playing”

Both Kohli and Rohit retired from T20Is last year after lifting the T20 World Cup and stepped away from Test cricket in May 2025. However, they remain active in the ODI format and are preparing for India’s three-match series against Australia in October.

Despite their continued presence in ODIs, a recent report from Dainik Jagran sparked rumors that the Australia series could mark their final appearance in Indian colors, raising doubts about their availability for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Kohli, 36, and Rohit, 38, will be 39 and 41 respectively by the time the tournament rolls around.

While Kohli has publicly declared the 2027 World Cup as his next major goal, and Rohit is working toward being physically ready, speculation about their retirement plans continues to swirl. That talk, however, was met with strong pushback from the BCCI.

Speaking on the Two Sloggers Podcast, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla appeared visibly irritated when asked about organizing a farewell series for the pair. “When did they retire? Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are both playing ODIs. So, if they’re still playing, why talk about a farewell series?” said Shukla.

“Yes, they have retired from two formats in phases, but they’re very much active in ODIs. Our policy at BCCI is clear — we don’t ask players to retire. It’s the player’s decision, and we respect it. Virat is extremely fit, and Rohit is still playing very well. So why the rush for farewells?”

India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia is scheduled for October 19, 23, and 25, with matches set to take place in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. Ticket sales are already underway.

For now, both Kohli and Rohit are expected to return to the field in full force, despite persistent speculation about whether this series could be their final act in Indian cricket.