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There has been a lot of debate recently about whether Indian stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should take part in domestic cricket. Currently they are only playing ODIs but the BCCI reportedly wants them to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to maintain their form. In this context former chief selector MSK Prasad has advised current chief selector Ajit Agarkar not to pressure the experienced players saying that during his time top players like MS Dhoni were never forced to play domestic tournaments. First thing that needs to be ensured is that you shouldnt be messing with the minds of such big players. They are the ones who are performing not the younger lot said Prasad speaking to Times of India. It will be ideal if they play domestic cricket when they are not on national duty because that will also inspire the young players in the state teams. But one should be careful that the issue is not brought up all the time. We never had a word with Dhoni about playing domestic cricket. He played whenever he felt it was necessary. There should be clear communication up front. Or else stick to the perform-or-perish policy. There should not be any scope for ambiguity he added. Prasad served as India’s chief selector from 2016 to 2020 when Kohli and Rohit were at the peak of their careers. Back then former captain MS Dhoni was in a stage of his career similar to where Kohli and Rohit are now. Prasad reminded Agarkar that Dhoni was never pressured to play domestic cricket to stay in form or fit. We never had a word with Dhoni about playing domestic cricket. He played whenever he felt it was necessary. There should be clear communication up front. Or else stick to the perform-or-perish policy. There should not be any scope for ambiguity Prasad stated. Kohli and Rohit have both been performing very well in ODI cricket. Rohit has scored two fifties and a hundred in his last four matches since the Champions Trophy. Kohli after getting out for zero twice has bounced back strongly with a fifty followed by a century.