R Ashwin Urges BCCI to Support Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Amid ODI Uncertainty

Ravichandran Ashwin urged the BCCI to support Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli amid doubts over their ODI futures.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called on the BCCI to provide backing and space for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli amid uncertainties surrounding their ODI futures. Ashwin emphasized that both players, being proven champions in white-ball cricket, deserve the right environment to perform at their best.

Ashwin highlighted Kohli’s marketing value, stating that his presence benefits Indian cricket by drawing crowds, selling tickets, and capturing global attention. “Virat Kohli‘s marketing is very important for the game and for himself. There is not much of a welcome for ODI series these days, so how else will you sell it? The highest sellable factor is the return of Rohit and Virat.

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So that has been sold. After that they also become the talking point. It is difficult to go straight away and perform. They have not played any cricket, no match practice. The stands might be filled in Adelaide, and they may also fail again; that is the nature of the game,” Ashwin said on ‘Ash ki Baat’.

Ashwin terms Kohli-Rohit As Selling Points

He further pointed out that both Rohit and Kohli carry a rich legacy in ODIs and T20Is. “Right now, Rohit and Virat need support, space, and communication. These three factors are important, and it is crucial for management and the broader Indian cricket ecosystem to support them at this point in time, fostering direct and open communication. With this, we could see their best once again in ODIs, because they are champions. In white-ball, they both have been champions, be it in ODIs or T20Is. A repository of success lies behind them. What are we questioning? They need space, respect, and that comfort with communication,” he added.

Ashwin also stressed the importance of letting the duo enjoy their cricket. “At this point in time, don’t let them feel the pressure. Let them enjoy themselves. Because you have to get the best out of them. They should be relieved of any kind of pressure on them. What is there for Virat to achieve? He has won everything. For Rohit, the 50-over World Cup is left, but for Virat, even that is not. He is accomplished. What is important for Indian cricket right now? To translate his knowledge and experience and pass it well to the other players, to use it well. Please utilise him to win tournaments. It is important to allow them to enjoy their cricket,” Ashwin said.

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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s future in ODI cricket remains uncertain, despite their remarkable achievements. The duo has been central to India’s successes in multiple ICC events but may no longer be the focal point for the 2027 ODI World Cup.