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New Delhi: Following Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohlis retirement from Test cricket in May earlier this year there have been numerous speculations on their future in international cricket given that both the star cricketers are active only in the ODI format. BCCIs chief selector Ajit Agarkar reflected on the months-long speculation surrounding Kohli and Rohits inclusion in the upcoming ODI leg of the Australia tour but remained non-committal about their chances for the 2027 World Cup. According to a report in the Times of India the three-match series starting October 19 will serve as a perform-or-perish challenge for the two senior batters. Informal discussions regarding 2027 ODI World Cup started after England Test series The report revealed that informal discussions regarding the 2027 ODI World Cup started soon after the Test series in England with Shubman Gill at the centre of plans. A blueprint was discussed with Gill and a pool of players was deliberated upon as the men who matter in Indian cricket circles were convinced that Gill would have the armband for the multi-nation event two years later the report stated. The bigger issue however was the inclusion of Rohit and Kohli who have not played for India since the Champions Trophy earlier this year. BCCI selectors were uncertin about Rohits form Regarding Rohit BCCI selectors were uncertain whether he could maintain his fine form over the next two years considering he plays only one format. Agarkar opened up about his concern during the squad announcement press-conference on Saturday stating that he expects both Rohit and Kohli to be part of the Vijay Hazare Trophy later this season to stay in contention for future selection The report also mentioned that at first the decision-makers were divided on Rohits role as ODI captain even after he guided India to a Champions Trophy victory marking a second consecutive ICC trophy under his leadership. However as the Australia tour approached a section in Indian cricketing circles opposed sending both Kohli and Rohit for the ODI series. Despite Kohli being two years younger and fitter than Rohit he was still being looked at from the same microscope. Agarkar stayed non-committal about Rohit and Kohlis ODI future If we keep dragging things it will only get complicated. And with two players - one 38 (Rohit) and other 36 (Kohli) - you cant place the early bets. Yes even the younger ones could lose form and fitness but its the safer bet they reasoned according to TOI. Earlier on Saturday Agarkar stayed non-committal about Rohit and Kohlis ODI future. While he also said that he has no knowledge of rumours suggesting the Australia tour could be their last he said Weve picked them [for Australia]… as far as the 2027 World Cup is concerned I dont think we need to talk about it today. You dont have to think too far at this point as the team is picked for Australia and you know just need them to score runs like they have been through their career. Story Highlight