Kohli and Rohit’s Retirement from Other Formats Gives ODI Cricket a New Lease of Life: Former Domestic Star Priyank Panchal

Mumbai | January 11, 2026 Former Gujarat batter Priyank Panchal has hailed the decision of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to retire from Tests and T20Is, calling it the “best thing” for the future of ODI cricket. Panchal, known for his prolific domestic career, said that with the duo focusing solely on the 50-over format, ODIs have regained relevance and star power in international cricket. Kohli and Rohit returned to ODIs in October 2025, making a high-profile trip to Australia, following their farewell to Tests last year and T20Is after the 2024 T20 World Cup. Panchal noted that ODI cricket had been struggling in recent years, often criticized for the monotony of its middle overs. “Virat and Rohit retiring from the other two formats was the best thing that could’ve happened to ODI cricket. The 50-over game, which seemed to be in its final trenches, has suddenly been revived because two of India’s biggest legends play exclusively that format,” he wrote on X. He emphasized that the two stalwarts are now the sole drivers keeping the format alive on the global stage. The last few months of 2025 witnessed Kohli and Rohit in sensational form. Rohit shone in the ODI series against Australia, winning the Player of the Series award, while Kohli dominated against South Africa. Both players also showcased their class in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, representing Mumbai and Delhi respectively, with Kohli scoring 131 and 77, and Rohit hitting 155 in one of his innings. With their stellar form continuing, the duo is expected to keep ODI cricket exciting. Fans can next see Virat and Rohit in action in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting Sunday, January 11, 2026. Their continued commitment to ODIs has silenced critics and ensured that the 50-over format retains its competitive charm and global appeal. Kohli and Rohit’s Focus on ODIs Revives 50-Over Cricket, Says Priyank Panchal Former Gujarat batter Priyank Panchal praised Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for retiring from Tests and T20Is, calling it the best move for ODI cricket. With the duo focusing solely on the 50-over format, Panchal said ODIs have regained relevance and star power. Kohli and Rohit returned to ODIs in October 2025 with a high-profile series in Australia. Panchal added that ODI cricket was losing momentum, but the legends’ exclusive presence in the format has revitalized it. “The 50-over game, which seemed to be in its final trenches, has suddenly been revived because two of India’s biggest legends play only this format,” he said. In late 2025, both players were in sensational form, excelling in ODIs against Australia and South Africa, and in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kohli scored 131 and 77, while Rohit made 155 in one of his innings, showcasing their dominance. The duo will next feature in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting Sunday, January 11, 2026, ensuring the format remains competitive and exciting for fans.