With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma back in the Indian team for the Australia ODIs, attention is on the veteran players and their continued contributions, especially with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon. Discussions about their future are underway. The squad selection prompted chief selector Ajit Agarkar to address questions concerning Virat Kohli’s fitness tests. As part of the standard protocol, centrally contracted players usually undergo fitness tests at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (NCA) and Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. While many players, including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, participated in these tests, Kohli’s absence generated debate. A report indicated that Kohli had completed his fitness tests in London, with the results then given to the CoE, leading to criticism. At a press conference, Agarkar clarified the situation, stating that Kohli had undergone the necessary fitness assessments. He noted that both Kohli and Sharma had completed the required fitness tests or met the suggested norms. Agarkar mentioned that the selectors are informed of the fitness statuses of all players prior to selection. Everyone chosen for the team has been declared fit and available. Both Kohli and Sharma are looking to prove their worth and secure their places, potentially with the goal of playing in the 2027 World Cup.
