Big update on Rohit Sharma’s Vijay Hazare return, MCA responds after BCCI’s directive

Speculation had been rife that Rohit Sharma had informed the MCA of his intention to play after the conclusion of the three-match ODI series against South Africa. However, the MCA official clarified on November 12 that they have received no official communication from the star batter confirming his availability for the tournament.

MCA denies communication regarding Rohit Sharma's Vijay Hazare participation

The reports stem from a directive issued by the BCCI and the Indian team management. According to The Indian Express, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been informed that participation in domestic cricket is now a mandatory requirement for them to maintain eligibility for selection to the national team. A BCCI official told the daily that since both players have retired from two formats (Tests and T20Is, respectively), they must play domestic matches to ensure they remain match-fit for international duty.

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Following this firm directive from the Indian board, a previous report suggested that Rohit, who has been consistently training at the MCA's BKC facility since the Australian ODI tour ended last month, had expressed interest in playing not only in the Vijay Hazare Trophy but also potentially the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which is set to commence at the end of the current month. The Vijay Hazare Trophy, a 50-over tournament, is scheduled to run from December 25 to January 18, with matches spread across Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Jaipur, and Bengaluru, and the knockout stages hosted at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The actual participation of the player, however, still awaits an official decision.

No Word from Rohit Sharma on Vijay Hazare

Contrary to persistent media reports suggesting that Rohit had communicated his domestic cricket intentions, a senior official from MCA confirmed to PTI that they have yet to receive any official word from the player.

"There has been no communication as far as I am aware," the official stated.

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The last time Rohit featured for India was during the ODI series against Australia, which marked his first appearance in national colors since leading the team to the Champions Trophy title in March of this year, and his first competitive outing since the IPL season. Though he was dismissed for a duck in the opening match, Rohit quickly regained his exceptional form. He followed up with a valiant knock of 73 in the second game and then registered a stunning, match-winning score of 121 not out in Sydney, showcasing that his elite form remains intact.

Rohit Sharma sets sights on ODIs vs South Africa

Following his successful return from the tour of Australia last month, Rohit Sharma immediately resumed training in Mumbai. His focus is currently on preparing for India's upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, which is scheduled to commence on November 30 in Ranchi. His fitness regimen in Mumbai is aimed at ensuring he is in peak condition for the high-profile series.