There has been much talk in recent days about the possibility of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli coming to India A to improve their form ahead of the home ODI series against South Africa later this month. However, new reports now suggest that the senior batting pair are unlikely to feature in India A’s upcoming one-day series against South Africa A starting on November 13.
As reported by Cricbuzz, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the India A squad soon. The selectors have a plan for the series, but it is currently understood that Rohit and Kohli will not be part of those plans. While there has been talk of the two using these matches to keep fit, the board seems happy with the workload and momentum they got during the recent ODI series in Australia.
In this three-match series, both the batsmen took a while to settle down but eventually put in impressive performances. Rohit started with a low score but bounced back impressively with an innings of 73 and an unbeaten 121 to secure the Player of the Series award. Kohli also found his rhythm in the third ODI, scoring 74, after a slow start to the series. The selectors are believed to have taken this recent form into account when deciding not to include them in the India A squad – had the Australia series gone differently the conversation could have changed.
Meanwhile, the Center of Excellence in Bengaluru is currently hosting India A’s ongoing red-ball match against South Africa A. Led by Rishabh Pant, India A claimed victory in the first four-day match that ended on November 2. The second leg starts on Thursday 6th November.
The national selectors are expected to meet soon to finalize the squad for the two matches Test series against Temba Bavuma in South Africa. The India A limited-overs squad is also likely to be confirmed during the same meeting. No big surprises for the senior test team. The only change expected is the return of wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant, who should replace N. Jagadeesan.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
November 5, 2025
