Mumbai: Team India’s preparations for the upcoming ODI season have been overshadowed by fitness concerns surrounding two of its biggest stars, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
According to reports, Rohit Sharma is expected to report to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru on June 8 for a detailed fitness assessment. The veteran opener is likely to spend three days at the facility, where he will undergo medical evaluations and batting sessions before a final decision is taken on his availability for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan.
Rohit’s fitness has remained under scrutiny after he reportedly dealt with a hamstring issue during the latter stages of the IPL season. If he clears the assessment, he is expected to join the Indian squad shortly before the Afghanistan series begins on June 13.
The situation appears more complicated for Virat Kohli. The former India captain is reportedly recovering from a hamstring injury that could keep him out of action for around six weeks. While Kohli is almost certain to miss the Afghanistan ODIs, his participation in the subsequent ODI series against England is also under serious doubt.
Sources indicate that Kohli’s injury does not require surgery, but the rehabilitation process is expected to be lengthy and will include treatment and recovery sessions at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
With two senior batters facing fitness uncertainties, selectors are closely monitoring developments before finalising India’s squads for upcoming international assignments. The coming week could prove crucial in determining whether Rohit and Kohli will be available for India’s ODI plans in the months ahead.
