India’s national selectors have decided not to rest Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. The decision was taken to give both senior batters more match practice and help the team build better coordination.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the selection committee discussed the workload of the two experienced players. There were talks about giving them rest after a long IPL season. However, the selectors finally decided that regular ODI cricket would be important for both players.
At present, Rohit and Kohli are active only in the ODI format for India. Because of this, the team management wants them to continue getting enough game time before future international tournaments.
Selectors want balance between youth and experience
The Afghanistan series is also being seen as a good chance for young Indian players to spend time with senior stars in the dressing room. The selectors believe this will help the squad develop better understanding and team bonding during a transition phase.
The management also wants to closely monitor the fitness and form of Rohit and Kohli during the series.
Sources have said that no player is guaranteed a permanent place in India’s ODI side. The selection committee plans to keep competition open for all players ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
India will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series in June. The Test will begin in New Chandigarh on June 6. The ODI matches will take place in Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Chennai from June 14 to 20.
Recently, Kohli said that he would not want to continue playing in an environment where he constantly had to prove himself.
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