Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could soon be back in India’s ODI setup. The two stalwarts might return next month—if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) approves Sri Lanka Cricket’s proposal for a short white-ball series in August. While nothing is confirmed yet, serious discussions are underway, and their comeback depends heavily on BCCI’s talks with head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
Sri Lanka Offers to Fill Void After Bangladesh Tour Cancellation
With India’s scheduled tour of Bangladesh (August 17–31) now postponed to 2026 due to regional security concerns, Sri Lanka Cricket has stepped in. They’ve proposed a replacement series—three ODIs and three T20Is—to keep the calendar active.
The BCCI hasn’t responded formally yet. A decision is expected soon, but only after assessing the Asia Cup’s status, which still hangs in the balance due to unresolved government approvals, particularly involving Pakistan’s participation.
Rohit & Kohli Could Return in ODI Blues
If the Sri Lanka series is greenlit, it would open the door for both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to return to action in the 50-over format. After stepping away from Tests and T20Is post the 2024 T20 World Cup, both veterans have been focusing exclusively on ODIs.
With the England Test series ongoing, neither player is currently in the mix. A potential August comeback could provide them vital match time ahead of bigger assignments later in the year.
Asia Cup, BCCI Strategy Talks Still Ongoing
A lot depends on what happens with the Asia Cup. Scheduled to be hosted by India from September 17 to 27, the tournament awaits final clearance from the Indian government due to political tensions surrounding Pakistan’s inclusion.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, currently in London during the Lord’s Test, is expected to hold key discussions with Gambhir, Agarkar, and senior players to decide on the Sri Lanka tour and broader planning. Only after this internal consultation will the BCCI finalize its stance.
Smart Opportunity for ODI Preparation Ahead of ICC Events
While the official reason behind postponing the Bangladesh tour is “scheduling convenience,” sources confirm that security concerns were a key factor. The Sri Lanka series, if approved, would allow the BCCI to effectively use the now-vacant window in August and give players—especially ODI specialists like Kohli and Rohit—some crucial game time.
With several key tournaments approaching, including the Asia Cup and ICC Champions Trophy, this tour could be the perfect warm-up for India’s senior campaigners.
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