Former opener alleges Rohit-Kohli being pressured out ahead of AUS vs IND ODI series

A former India opener claims Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are being edged out of the ODI setup via pressure tactics, akin to corporate layoffs.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma (Image | BCCI on X)

The upcoming India vs Australia ODI series has brought attention not only to the on-field action but also to the off-field debates around the future of two Indian greats, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Former India opener Sadagoppan Ramesh has sparked discussion by comparing their situation to “corporate-style exits,” where senior employees are not openly sacked but slowly eased out through mounting pressure.

Ramesh suggested that the recent appointment of Shubman Gill as ODI captain reflects a clear shift towards a younger leadership group. While Rohit and Kohli are still part of the squad, their roles appear less central than before. According to Ramesh, this approach resembles creating an atmosphere where legends may feel pushed toward retirement rather than being given direct clarity about their future.

He further argued that the transition could have been handled more transparently. Instead of subtle sidelines, the management could provide open communication about plans for balancing experienced campaigners with emerging stars. This, he feels, would ensure that the contributions of stalwarts like Rohit and Kohli are respected even as India looks forward.

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"Though we can be happy that Rohit and Virat are back, they are putting extra pressure on the two. It's like cooperates who won't sack you directly but will put enough pressure that you quit walk away yourselves. That's the technique the current Indian management seems to follow," said Sadagoppan Ramesh on his YouTube channel.

India’s ODI future under new leadership

With Gill taking charge of the ODI side and Shreyas Iyer named as vice-captain, India seems intent on grooming the next generation of leaders. Young players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, and Arshdeep Singh are also getting bigger opportunities, showing the selectors’ intent to build for the future.

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While this youth-driven approach excites fans, the treatment of senior players has drawn scrutiny. Kohli and Rohit remain two of India’s most bankable names, both commercially and in terms of experience. Any indication that they are being gradually phased out without clarity risks sparking unease within the dressing room and among supporters.

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