November 12, 2025 : In a significant development following the BCCI’s directive that senior players must participate in domestic cricket to remain eligible for India selection, India’s all-format captain Rohit Sharma has reportedly agreed to comply with the board’s order and is expected to play in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season for Mumbai.
The decision comes after BCCI secretary Jay Shah reiterated earlier this month that centrally contracted players who skip domestic tournaments without valid reasons would face selection consequences. The move is aimed at strengthening India’s first-class structure and ensuring that experienced players contribute to domestic cricket’s competitive environment.
Rohit Leads by Example
According to reports from sources close to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), Rohit Sharma has communicated his availability for Mumbai’s next Ranji Trophy match, marking a return to domestic cricket after a gap of several years.
The decision has been welcomed by both selectors and former players, who believe Rohit’s presence will motivate younger cricketers and elevate the overall standard of the competition.
“Rohit’s willingness to play Ranji is a big statement. When the national captain shows commitment to the domestic circuit, it sends the right message to every aspiring cricketer,” said a senior MCA official.
Rohit’s participation could also provide him valuable red-ball match practice ahead of India’s upcoming tour of South Africa and the five-Test home series against England.
No Response Yet from Virat Kohli
While Rohit has responded positively, reports suggest that Virat Kohli has not yet communicated his stance to the board or his state association regarding participation in domestic fixtures.
Kohli, who last played a Ranji match for Delhi in 2022, has been out of international action recently, citing personal reasons. Sources indicate that the BCCI expects him to play at least one or two domestic games once he is available for selection.
A senior BCCI official told media outlets, “We respect Virat’s stature and his contribution to Indian cricket, but the new directive applies to everyone. Players cannot skip domestic cricket indefinitely. The board is clear — play domestic if fit and available.”
BCCI’s Strong Message
The BCCI’s stance comes amid growing concerns that top players often skip Ranji and Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, leaving young domestic cricketers without the chance to learn from seniors.
Jay Shah had recently stated: “If you want to play for India, you have to play domestic cricket when not on national duty. This is non-negotiable.”
The directive was reportedly discussed and unanimously approved at the recent Apex Council meeting, where selectors emphasized the importance of match readiness and maintaining domestic competitiveness.
The board also wants to avoid situations where players are match-rusty before international series — a factor cited in India’s recent overseas Test struggles.
Mixed Reactions in Cricket Circles
While the order has been widely supported, a few voices have raised concerns about the workload management of senior players. Former India coach Ravi Shastri said in a TV interview, “It’s important that the board balances domestic participation with workload. Players like Rohit and Virat have played non-stop international cricket for years.”
However, many former cricketers, including Sourav Ganguly and Sunil Gavaskar, backed the decision, calling it “a much-needed step to revive domestic cricket culture.”
Gavaskar said, “When players like Rohit Sharma turn up for Mumbai, it’s not just about cricket — it’s about inspiring hundreds of young players. Domestic cricket builds India’s future stars.”
Team India’s Next Assignments
India is set to face South Africa in December, followed by a crucial five-Test series against England starting January. The selectors want all senior players in peak form and fitness for the long home season, making domestic participation even more relevant.
Rohit’s return to domestic cricket could also help the Mumbai team, which is currently placed in the middle of the Ranji points table. His experience and leadership are expected to boost the squad’s morale and tactical depth.
Symbolic Leadership Move
Cricket experts believe Rohit’s decision is not just about compliance but about setting a cultural tone for the next generation.
“Rohit’s move is symbolic — it shows leadership beyond captaincy. He’s bridging the gap between international and domestic cricket,” said former cricketer Wasim Jaffer.
The development also underscores the BCCI’s renewed emphasis on grassroots engagement, ensuring that even top-tier stars stay connected to the domestic ecosystem that built them.
As the debate around player workload, fitness, and domestic relevance continues, Rohit’s proactive decision might just redefine the relationship between Indian cricket’s elite and its domestic backbone.
All eyes will now be on Virat Kohli’s next move — whether he follows suit and turns out for Delhi in the coming weeks or continues his break before rejoining Team India.
Summary
Rohit Sharma will play domestic cricket following BCCI’s order requiring senior players’ participation, setting an example for others. Virat Kohli has yet to respond to the directive, reports suggest.