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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma farewell talk grows louder, but Rajeev Shukla dismisses it and Aakash Chopra calls Vijay Hazare chatter ‘bogus’.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma farewell talks have taken over social media, with fans debating what lies ahead for the two legends. Both stars have retired from T20Is and Tests, leaving ODIs as their only active format. But after the Champions Trophy in February, India’s next ODI series is only in October against Australia — meaning fans won’t see the two icons in action for a long stretch.

Reports even suggest that the Australia series could be among their last, since the 2027 World Cup is still nearly two years away. Amid this speculation, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla was asked if the board plans a farewell series for the duo, similar to Sachin Tendulkar’s in 2013.

Shukla’s response was sharp. “Woh retire kaha hue? (When did they retire?) Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will both play one-dayers. So, why worry about a farewell? Yes, they retired from two formats, but they are still active in ODIs. No need to overthink,” he said during a podcast at the UPT20.

He further explained BCCI’s stance. “Our policy is clear — we never tell a player to retire. That decision is theirs. Virat is extremely fit, Rohit is in top form. Why talk farewell now?”

Meanwhile, some reports suggested that Kohli and Rohit must play the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay relevant. But former India opener Aakash Chopra dismissed the idea outright.

“This is bogus talk. The Vijay Hazare Trophy happens in November-December. What’s the point? India has nine ODIs until the next IPL — three each against Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. That’s it. The gaps are massive. You won’t stay in rhythm just by playing Vijay Hazare,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

He added that selection would never depend on domestic performances for players of their stature. “Let’s be honest, Rohit and Kohli don’t need Vijay Hazare to prove themselves. They’ll always be picked. The chatter is unnecessary.”