With recent poor performances, the transition to younger talent appears imminent.
India’s recent struggles in Test cricket—suffering a 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand and a 1-3 loss in Australia—have intensified discussions regarding the future of Kohli and Rohit.
Speculation is mounting that the Champions Trophy could mark the end of an era for the senior duo, especially with the upcoming tour of England marking a new WTC cycle.
During a press conference in Mumbai ahead of the Champions Trophy squad announcement, Agarkar remarked: “It’s a month away from the Champions Trophy. These guys have been exceptional performers in one-day cricket… We’ll see once the Champions Trophy is done, we’ve got a bit more time to sit and assess where everyone is. Not just one of the players but where we go forward. But at the moment, the focus is on one-day cricket and Champions Trophy.”
Rohit Sharma, following a modest return with the bat in Test cricket since September (164 runs in eight Tests at 10.93), has confirmed his availability for Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy fixture against Jammu and Kashmir on January 23.
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli was named in Delhi’s probable squad for their match against Saurashtra in Rajkot but withdrew, reportedly citing a neck injury.