Cricket fans were surprised on Monday during the third round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 when Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma did not take the field for their respective domestic teams.
Sports News: Cricket fans were shocked during the third round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 when Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were not included in the playing eleven of their respective domestic teams. Both veteran batsmen were rested in the third round after playing in the initial matches for Delhi and Mumbai. Questions quickly arose on social media as to whether this decision was due to injury, poor form, or a selection issue. However, the truth is quite different.
The Decision Was Part of a Pre-Determined Strategy
According to media reports, the participation of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was part of a pre-determined limited plan. Both players were only scheduled to play two matches in this domestic ODI tournament, which they have now completed. Therefore, their absence in the third round is not related to any injury or fitness problem.
While Delhi is facing Saurashtra in the third round at the KSCA Stadium in Alur, Karnataka, the Mumbai team has taken to the field against Chhattisgarh in Jaipur. Virat and Rohit are not part of either team in these matches.
Virat-Rohit's Performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy
Virat Kohli showcased excellent batting for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025. He played a brilliant century (131 runs) and a crucial innings of 77 runs in two matches. Virat, making a return to domestic cricket after a long time, demonstrated his class and experience effectively. Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, made a spectacular start to the tournament for Mumbai.
He thrilled fans with an explosive innings of 155 runs in the very first match. However, he was dismissed for a golden duck in the second match against Uttarakhand. Nevertheless, his performance in the first match was quite impressive.
Will Virat Kohli Play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Again?
According to a Cricbuzz report, Virat Kohli may play one more match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. It is expected that he may take the field in the Delhi vs. Railway match on January 6th. However, the final decision will depend on the team management and his availability. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma's domestic season is considered to be over for now. The report clearly states that Rohit will not play any further matches for Mumbai in this tournament.
Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are now primarily focused on the India vs. New Zealand ODI series, which begins on January 11th. It is believed that both players will soon join the national camp of the Indian team. The team management's goal is to keep key players fresh for the international series after getting them match-fit through domestic cricket.
