Our Bureau
New Delhi
In a strategic pivot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to ramp up One-Day International (ODI) matches in 2026, prioritizing game time for veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
This move addresses concerns over limited 50-over exposure amid the T20-heavy calendar, including the ongoing T20 World Cup and the high-stakes Indian Premier League (IPL). New Zealand Cricket’s proposal, to expand ODIs and trim T20s during India’s October-November tour, has gained traction, with BCCI reportedly set to accept it. The adjustment aims to sharpen the duo’s form, as both remain pivotal despite recent scrutiny on their ODI futures.
Post-IPL 2026, India’s focus will pivot to white-ball readiness. Kohli, the chase master with unmatched consistency, and Sharma, the explosive opener and former captain, have been urged to prioritize ODIs. Reports indicate BCCI officials, including chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir, favor this extension to build momentum. Fans see it as a vote of confidence after earlier calls for domestic play like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to prove white-ball fitness.
New Zealand’s offer aligns perfectly, potentially adding crucial matches. This comes after a cancelled high-level meeting on their roles, signaling internal support. Critics argue T20 dominance has eroded ODI skills, but BCCI’s tweak counters that, ensuring the stalwarts peak for the global showdown.
