The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a strategic request to its two ODI stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, to participate in the upcoming domestic Vijay Hazare Trophy. This move is designed to help the veteran batters maintain their competitive edge and rhythm, as they now focus exclusively on the 50-over format. With an eye on the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, this tournament provides them with crucial match practice.
Why This Tournament Matters for the Stars
Since both Rohit and Virat have stepped away from Test and T20 International cricket, their appearances have become a rare treat for fans. Their last outing in 2025 was likely the third ODI against South Africa on 6 December. The Vijay Hazare Trophy offers a perfect platform to silence critics and solidify their case for future national team selections by showcasing consistent form. Their global fanbase, missing their on-field presence, will now have a chance to see them in action in the domestic arena.
Mumbai's Fixtures: Rohit Sharma's Schedule
Rohit Sharma will represent Mumbai, which is placed in Elite Group C. The team will play all its group matches in Jaipur. Their campaign kicks off on Wednesday, 24 December, against Sikkim at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium (9 AM start).
The subsequent group stage schedule for Mumbai is as follows:
- vs Uttarakhand on 26 December at Anantam Ground
- vs Chhattisgarh on 29 December at Jaipuria Vidhyalaya Ground
- vs Goa on 31 December at Anantam Ground
- vs Maharashtra on 3 January at K L Saini Stadium
- vs Himachal Pradesh on 6 January at Sawai Mansingh Stadium
- vs Punjab on 8 January at Jaipuria Vidhyalaya Ground
All matches are scheduled for a 9 AM start.
Delhi's Campaign: Virat Kohli's Itinerary
Virat Kohli will turn out for Delhi in Elite Group D, with all group games set in Bengaluru. Delhi begins its tournament against Andhra on 24 December at the Alur Cricket Stadium.
Delhi's complete group stage fixture list:
- vs Gujarat on 26 December at Alur Cricket Stadium
- vs Saurashtra on 29 December at Alur Stadium II
- vs Odisha on 31 December at Alur Stadium III
- vs Services on 3 January at M Chinnaswamy Stadium
- vs Railways on 6 January at Alur Stadium II
- vs Haryana on 8 January at M Chinnaswamy Stadium
Knockouts and Broadcasting Details
Should Mumbai and Delhi progress, fans will get to see more of their favourite stars in the knockout rounds. The pre-quarterfinals are likely from 9 January, followed by quarters (12-13 January), semi-finals (15-16 January), and the final on 18 January.
The primary way to watch the tournament will be via free live streaming on the JioCinema app and website. Television coverage will be limited, with only select knockout matches broadcast on the Sports18 Network and Colors Cineplex. For the majority of the group stage, online streaming remains the sole viewing option.
