Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could return to India’s playing XI in August, provided the BCCI finalizes a short white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The proposal, sent by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), seeks to fill the slot left vacant by the cancelled Bangladesh tour. If approved, the tour will include three ODIs and three T20Is.
Both Kohli and Rohit are currently available only for ODIs after stepping away from Tests and T20Is following the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their return hinges on approval from the BCCI and discussions with new head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
The proposed series aims to utilise the August window originally reserved for the Bangladesh tour, which was postponed to 2026 due to security and scheduling concerns. The final decision on the Sri Lanka tour will also depend on the status of the Asia Cup, which is yet to receive government clearance.
BCCI weighs Asia Cup status before confirming Sri Lanka tour
The BCCI has not yet officially responded to Sri Lanka’s request. A decision is expected after considering the Asia Cup, scheduled for mid-September but awaiting approval due to political issues involving Pakistan.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who is currently in London for the Lord’s Test, will discuss the Sri Lanka proposal with Gambhir, Agarkar, and senior players. These meetings will be crucial in deciding the roadmap for August.
If the Sri Lanka tour is confirmed, fans could witness the much-awaited comeback of Kohli and Rohit in India’s ODI setup. The matches would also serve as key preparation for the Asia Cup and future ICC events, making the series vital for the ODI core.
Until then, cricket fans will have to stay tuned as the BCCI continues its internal consultations and assesses the larger international calendar.
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