‘Why not more ODIs?’ - Irfan Pathan urges BCCI to give Rohit, Kohli more games

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has called for an increase in the number of ODI matches so fans can continue to watch Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in action. The veteran duo are currently active only in the 50-over format, having retired from T20Is in 2024 and Tests in 2025. Pathan believes their recent performances have reignited interest in ODIs.

Questioning the current scheduling pattern, Pathan asked why series are limited to three matches instead of five and why triangular or quadrangular ODI tournaments cannot be organised. He pointed out that since Rohit and Kohli now play only one format, the BCCI has ample scope to schedule more ODIs and allow fans to enjoy the legendary pair for longer.

“That’s why I am repeatedly saying one thing. Why can’t we have five ODIs instead of three? Why can’t we have a triangular or quadrangular series? Why can’t we arrange that, because these two greats play only one format? It won’t be wrong to say that if a lot of interest has returned to ODI cricket, these two have brought it,” Pathan said on Star Sports.

Kohli and Sharma have been in red-hot form in international cricket, showing no signs of slowing down despite playing only the ODI format. Both batters impressed in recent series against Australia and South Africa, reminding selectors and team management that they remain key contenders for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

“The biggest thing is that they are also performing. The World Cup is far away. You will definitely want to think about it, but I am also thinking that the more we get to see them, that these two players should keep playing, keep representing India, and when they are not playing for India, they should keep playing domestic cricket because the more they play, the better it is,” said Pathan.

As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce Team India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand on Saturday, January 3. The three-match series will begin in Vadodara on January 11, followed by the second ODI in Rajkot on January 14. The final match is scheduled to be played at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on January 18.