Agarkar Backs Rohit and Kohli, Says 'Silly' to Judge Them Series-by-Series

Agarkar Backs Rohit and Kohli, Says 'Silly' to Judge Them Series-by-Series

Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar has strongly defended Indian cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, stating that it would be "a bit silly" to judge them on a match-by-match basis, especially given their records and legacy.

Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar addressed questions about the roles of Rohit and Kohli in the ODI setup ahead of the 2027 World Cup. He emphasized that while the duo's long-term future will be evaluated over time, they are not on trial during India’s upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting Sunday in Perth.

"That would be a bit silly, isn't it, when one averages over 50 and the other averages close to 50?" said Agarkar. "You're not going to put them on trial in every game. They've achieved all they had to achieve — not just winning trophies but also in terms of runs."

While acknowledging the reality of their age and format limitations, Agarkar said both players will be assessed gradually, without undue pressure. "2027 is a long way away... Once they start playing, then you assess as you go forward," he added.

ODI-Only Focus Post Retirements

Both Sharma and Kohli are now focused solely on ODIs, having retired from T20Is after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup and from Tests following the 2024-25 Australia tour. Agarkar revealed that the duo chose to step away from Tests to make space for younger players at the start of the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

"Both were very aware, perhaps they may not have gone on for those two years as Test players for the WTC cycle," he said. Despite selectors wishing for their experience in the England series, where India drew 2-2 under new captain Shubman Gill, Agarkar said their decision to retire was respected.

Shubman Gill Leads, Transition Underway

Shubman Gill, who took over as ODI captain from Rohit, is also leading India’s Test side in this transitional phase. Agarkar noted that the England series performance — a drawn series under a young captain — was commendable despite the absence of seasoned campaigners.

"We would have liked some experience [in England], but they had made their decision... Once players like them decide to walk away from a format, you have to respect that."

Shami’s Fitness Under Scanner

Addressing fast bowler Mohammed Shami’s omission from the Australia tour, Agarkar clarified that the decision was purely fitness-related. Shami, currently playing in the Ranji Trophy, had publicly questioned the call, stating that if he was fit to play four-day games, he could also play ODIs.

Agarkar responded diplomatically:

"If he says that to me, I'll probably answer that. My phone is always on for most players. I've had multiple chats with him in the last few months. If he was fully fit, he would have been on that plane."

He added that the selection panel will continue to monitor Shami's performance and fitness during the ongoing domestic season. "With his quality, if he's bowling well, why would you not want someone like Shami? But over the last year, unfortunately, his fitness hasn’t been there."

Key Takeaways:

  • Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli not on "trial" in ODI series vs Australia

  • Duo retired from Tests and T20Is to make way for new talent

  • Shubman Gill now leads the ODI and Test sides

  • Shami left out of Australia tour due to fitness concerns, under ongoing review

India's ODI squad is currently preparing in Perth for the first match of the series, with the spotlight on both experience and youth as the team shapes itself for future challenges.