Irfan Pathan, a former Indian cricket player, has advocated for more ODI matches so that supporters can keep seeing Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play. The seasoned pair withdrew from T20Is and Test matches in 2024 and 2025, respectively, and are now just playing in the 50-over format. According to Pathan, interest in ODIs has been rekindled by their recent performances.
Pathan questioned the existing schedule, asking why triangular or quadrangular ODI tournaments cannot be held and why series are only allowed to include three matches rather than five. He noted that the BCCI has plenty of room to schedule more ODIs and give fans more time to enjoy the iconic duo because Rohit and Kohli only play one format today.
That’s the reason I keep saying the same thing. Instead of three ODIs, why can’t we have five? Why are triangular or quadrangular series not possible? Since these two greats only perform in one format, why can’t we make that happen? Pathan stated on Star Sports, “It wouldn’t be incorrect to say that these two have brought a lot of interest back to ODI cricket.”
Despite only playing the ODI format, Kohli and Sharma have been in scorching form in international cricket and don’t appear to be slowing down. Both hitters reminded team management and selectors that they are still strong candidates for the 2027 ODI World Cup after their impressive performances in previous series against South Africa and Australia.
The most important thing is that they are performing as well. That World Cup is a long way off. You should definitely give it some thought, but I also believe that these two players should continue to play and represent India.
When they are not playing for India, they should continue to play domestic cricket because the more they play, the better,” Pathan said.
According to rumours, on Saturday, January 3, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would reveal Team India’s 15-man roster for the forthcoming ODI series against New Zealand. On January 11, the three-match series will start in Vadodara. On January 14, the second ODI will take place in Rajkot. On January 18, the final game is set to take place at Indore’s Holkar Cricket Stadium.
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