Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are still very important for India’s ODI setup. He expressed that their experience will guide younger players, especially when the team is in its transition phase.
His remarks came amid emerging rumours over the uncertainty of both veteran batters’ ODI future. Since leading India to Champions Trophy victory earlier in 2025, both Rohit and Virat have not played any game for India, as they announced their Test retirements before the England tour. The duo had already stepped away from T20Is after the T20 World Cup glory in 2024.
Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, Raina said, “Rohit and Virat’s experience is very important. It’s crucial for the seniors to stay involved with the juniors. Shubman (Gill) has done really well, but he needs players like Virat and Rohit.” He added, “They have won the Champions Trophy, they have won the World Cups. Virat won the last IPL also. For the astute leadership they have shown during their respective careers, they need to be part of the dressing room.”
Rohit and Kohli are most likely to return during India’s upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia in Australia.
Raina also praised Mohammed Siraj’s role in the team and claimed that the pacer should be an integral part of Team India in all three formats. “Siraj should be part of the Indian set-up in all three formats, given how he has performed for the country with both the white ball and red ball. He bowled 187 overs in the series and came through without any niggle,” Raina said.
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