India’s legendary batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are ready for the Australia tour, but former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has made a sensational claim.
He says there is a specific purpose behind the availability of both players. India will play three ODIs in Australia starting October 19th and then a five-match T20 series starting October 29th. This tour is part of preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
Why was the Australia tour chosen?
Gavaskar believes that Rohit and Virat agreed to the series against Australia because India was defeated by Australia in the 2023 World Cup final.
He told India Today, “I’m pretty sure if it was a tour to Zimbabwe or West Indies, both would not have been available. But because it’s Australia, and because India lost to Australia in the World Cup final, that’s probably the reason both have decided, yes, I want to be available for this.”
Gavaskar says that if this tour had been against weaker teams like West Indies or Zimbabwe, both players might not have been available.
He also said that selecting Rohit and Virat for the 2027 World Cup could be difficult, as both have retired from Test and T20 formats.
Gavaskar said, “It very much depends on the number of ODIs India plays. Preparing for a big tournament like the World Cup, playing just seven or eight ODIs in a season, is not easy.”
He says that the lack of experience in limited-overs ODIs could pose a challenge for both.
Advice to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy**
Gavaskar suggested that Rohit and Virat should play in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
This will keep them fit and provide match practice. He said, “They will have to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in India when it is scheduled, provided it doesn’t clash with any international ODI tournament. It’s a way to stay fit and maintain match practice.”
Gavaskar believes that this tournament is important for both players due to India’s reduced ODI schedule.
BCCI selector Ajit Agarkar has also selected Rohit and Virat for the ODI series.
Gavaskar says that this series against Australia is a great opportunity for both players to showcase their form and fitness.
