Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are expected to return to action in India’s three-match ODI series against Australia in October 2025 — their only active format at international level. However, uncertainty continues to loom over their future. Reports suggest the current management, led by Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir, may look beyond the veterans for the 2027 World Cup. Some even hint that the upcoming series could be their final appearance in Indian colours unless they feature in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Rohit, Bumrah, Gill at COE for Yo-Yo Test
As part of pre-season preparation, Rohit Sharma, India’s ODI skipper, joined Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammad Siraj, and Shardul Thakur at the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. They underwent mandatory fitness assessments including the Yo-Yo Test and Dexa scan, which measures bone density.
This was Rohit’s first fitness test since retiring from Tests earlier this year. Notably, Kohli did not report for the test, and there is no official word yet on when the former India captain will undergo his evaluation.
BCCI’s Subtle Reminder
Speaking to The Indian Express, a BCCI official clarified that all centrally contracted players must clear fitness assessments before the season begins.
“All players have to undergo a pre-season fitness test, it’s mandatory as per the contract. These tests help the COE understand the areas players need to improve,” the official said.
The board has also stressed that players were provided with personalized training routines during the off-season to stay match-fit.
New Bronco Test Coming Soon
India’s strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux has recommended introducing the Bronco Test, a rugby-style endurance test, later in the season to make the regime more demanding.
Others Already Cleared
Meanwhile, T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav have already completed their pre-season fitness tests ahead of the Asia Cup, beginning September 9.
Catch every update on Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on The Cricket Scores!
