Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli to skip South Africa A series
What's the story
Veteran Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are unlikely to play in the upcoming three-match ODI series (unofficial) against South Africa A. The matches will be held on November 13, 16, and 19 in Rajkot. Despite speculation over their participation ahead of the multi-format home series against South Africa later this month, reports now suggest otherwise. Notably, both Rohit and Kohli are active in only ODI cricket.
Squad announcement
Selectors have a plan for these matches
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the India A squad to face South Africa A soon. However, reports suggest that the selectors have a plan for these matches and don't intend to include Rohit and Kohli in it. The decision comes after their impressive run in the recent ODI series in Australia, where they showed good form after initial struggles.
Form
Current form of Rohit, Kohli
As mentioned, both Rohit and Kohli have retired from T20I and Test cricket. The duo was impressive in the recent ODI series against Australia Down Under. Rohit was named Player of the Series for scoring a half-century and a century, while Kohli made a strong comeback with a risk-free 74* in the Sydney ODI. Although India lost the ODI series, these performances have sparked speculation about their potential participation in the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Current matches
Ongoing India A red-ball series against SA A
India A are currently playing a two-match red-ball series against South Africa A at Bengaluru's Centre of Excellence. The first match concluded on November 2 with Rishabh Pant's side winning. The second match will begin on Monday (November 6). National selectors are likely to meet soon to finalize the white-ball squads and the upcoming Test series against Temba Bavuma's South Africa.