BCCI Given Fitting Reply On Vijay Hazare Trophy Diktat For Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma | 2025
A fresh controversy erupted in Indian cricket in 2025 after reports surfaced that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had issued a diktat asking senior players, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy as part of a renewed focus on domestic cricket.
However, the board received a strong and fitting reply from senior voices within the cricketing community, former players, and even some state associations, who argued that forcing veterans into domestic tournaments was unnecessary and counterproductive.
How the Controversy Started
As India intensified preparations for a packed 2025 cricket calendar, BCCI officials reportedly stressed that all players—regardless of seniority—must show commitment to domestic cricket. The message was interpreted as a directive for stars like Kohli and Rohit to prove match fitness and form through the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The move aimed to set a uniform standard, but it immediately triggered backlash.
The “Fitting Reply” to BCCI
1. Former Cricketers Question the Logic
Veterans of the game publicly stated that players of Kohli and Rohit’s stature do not need to play domestic ODIs to prove anything.
Several former captains and coaches argued:
Their workload must be managed smartly, especially at this stage of their careers.
Forcing them into domestic tournaments risks injury ahead of international commitments.
Domestic cricket should nurture young talent, not overburden senior legends.
2. State Associations Defend Their Players
A couple of state units reportedly wrote to the BCCI expressing reservations:
They highlighted that Kohli and Rohit are already part of structured training programs.
They reminded the board of the players’ 20+ years of service and massive contributions to Indian cricket.
Some associations subtly hinted that domestic tournaments shouldn’t be reduced to “selection tests” for players already in the core national group.
3. Player Supporters Raise Voice Online
Fans, analysts, and former cricketers flooded social media with opinions:
Calling the diktat “unfair” and “disrespectful.”
Pointing out how globally, senior players are allowed to choose formats that suit their bodies.
Emphasizing that the focus should be on strengthening domestic structure, not policing senior players.
BCCI’s Stand in 2025
The board claims the goal is to instill a stronger domestic culture, ensuring continuity between national and domestic performances. With packed schedules and increasing injuries, the BCCI wants every player to stay in competitive rhythm.
However, critics say the board must differentiate between emerging players and 35+ veterans who have already proven everything there is to prove.
What Kohli and Rohit Said
Though neither player directly commented, sources close to the teams suggested:
Both are committed to representing India in upcoming marquee tournaments in 2025.
They prefer managing workload through tailored training rather than extra domestic fixtures.
They will follow decisions finalized by the team management without unnecessary drama.
Why This Debate Matters in 2025
The Indian cricket landscape in 2025 is undergoing transition:
Several young stars are rising rapidly.
Legends like Rohit and Kohli are balancing workload with selective participation.
Domestic cricket is being revamped to improve competitiveness.
The clash between experience and policy is natural—but mishandling it can create unnecessary tension.
Conclusion
The fitting reply to BCCI’s diktat reflects a broader sentiment: while domestic cricket deserves importance, the board must respect the careers, contributions, and physical realities of India’s senior-most stars. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain invaluable assets, and any policy involving them must be thoughtful, balanced, and rooted in long-term planning.
As India navigates an important cricketing year in 2025, harmony between players and the board will be crucial for success.
