The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in international cricket is currently a hot topic, especially after the BCCI announced Shubman Gill as India’s new ODI captain for the upcoming three-match series against Australia, starting October 19. Both Rohit and Kohli have been named in the squad purely as specialist batters, but questions about their long-term roles have sparked a significant debate.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, many speculate that the Australia tour could be the final international assignment for these two decorated veterans.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently made it clear that players wishing to remain in contention for national selection must participate in domestic cricket when fit and available. However, former England pacer Steve Harmison believes Agarkar’s approach might be a misstep, especially when dealing with players of Rohit and Kohli’s immense stature.
“Unfortunately, I think there might be a messy end for Ajit Agarkar there. If anybody is going to win here, I think it is the former captains rather than the former all-rounder,” Harmison stated on talkSPORT Cricket. He added, “But it all depends on, if Agarkar is saying this just to fuel the fire of Kohli and Sharma, then fair enough. You put your cards on the table and see what comes.”
Harmison further elaborated that while both players are undeniably crucial to India’s team, Kohli’s impact in 50-over cricket is in a league of its own.
“I think Kohli has got a little bit of skin in the game. Runs in the bank, his reputation. Sharma, not as much. Sharma’s a little bit older. He’s not been as influential in 50-over cricket as Virat has,” he explained.
The former England fast bowler also cautioned that India could deeply feel Kohli’s absence if selectors attempt a rebuild without him. “If Virat turns around and says, ‘All right, you go to the 50-over World Cup without me… when you’re chasing 350 in 50 overs to win against Australia or England, and you haven’t got that bloke who averages 90 winning games at number four, see where your team’s at.’ There could be a messy end in that way,” Harmison added.
Emphasizing the magnitude of the challenge Agarkar faces, Harmison concluded, “If Agarkar’s looking for a fight, he’s going to get one, but he’s not going to win it.” He humorously suggested that a private jet would be sent from London, implying the Indian team would desperately miss Kohli if they started losing without him in the next ODI World Cup.
India’s first ODI against Australia is scheduled for October 19 in Sydney.