Back to Basics: ‘RoKo’ Ordered to Play Domestic Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ordered Indian captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli, aka ‘RoKo‘ to participate in domestic cricket following their consistent failures in international Test cricket.

Back to Basics for ‘RoKo’

According to reports from Indian media, the BCCI convened a high-level meeting to review the national team’s recent failures in Test cricket, with a particular focus on the underwhelming performances of senior players, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The meeting, attended by top BCCI officials, selectors, and team management, resulted in a significant policy shift aimed at revamping the selection process for the Indian Test team.

During the meeting, it was decided that all players, regardless of their stature or past achievements, must participate in domestic cricket to be eligible for selection in the national Test squad. This includes the Ranji Trophy, India’s premier domestic first-class competition.

No More Selection Based on Reputation

The BCCI has made it clear that the days of selecting players based on past performances, seniority, or reputation are over. Instead, the board has emphasized the importance of current form and match practice, which can only be demonstrated through consistent performances in domestic cricket.

Rohit and Kohli’s Struggles in Australia

India’s recent Test series against Australia was a major disappointment, with the team losing 1-3. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have been the backbone of India’s batting lineup for years, failed to deliver when it mattered most.

Their lackluster performances drew criticism from fans and experts alike, with many questioning their preparation and hunger for the longest format of the game.

No More Special Treatment

That’s not all, BCCI also banned cricketers’ wives from traveling with them on series tours. Players are also ordered to travel in the team bus instead of a private transport.