Shastri: Rohit, Virat should Focus on Tests, ODIs for India

It is widely debated whether veteran players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be included in the T20I squad. The 2023 IPL season saw a number of young players rise to the occasion and perform under pressure.

In light of the success of young players like Suryakumar Yadav, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Verma and Shubman Gill. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s recent poor form in T20Is is raising questions about their eligibility for the team.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri harshly criticized Virat and Rohit’s inclusion in the team. He added, the players selection will be based on their performance.

“Cricket Maestros Kohli and Sharma Advised to Focus on Tests and ODIs”

“Virat and Rohit are now where Sachin, Rahul Dravid, Sourav, and Laxman were. You are aware that you are looking at a template. One year is a long time, and it is up to form if Virat and Rohit do not rule themselves out of T20.

Shastri told ESPNcricinfo, “You will select the best players available at the time, and of course fitness and experience will also be important factors.

Ravi Shastri urged Kohli and Sharma to focus on Tests and ODIs. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should focus on the longer formats of the game.

Shastri added that young players should be given the chance to play in the T20I team. Players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have demonstrated what they are all about.

I would advise developing the young players right away to give them the opportunities and exposure while keeping players like Virat and Rohit fresh for ODI and Test cricket, said Shastri.

The selectors will ultimately decide whether or not to include Kohli and Sharma in the T20I squad. They will need to make a decision that is in the best interests of the team.