Why Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli's VHT Matches Aren't On Live TV? Ashwin Says 'Last-Minute Switch...'

There’s been plenty of interest in India’s top-flight domestic one-day tournament, Vijay Hazare Trophy, this time around thanks to the participation of the country’s finest batters – Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The two made their domestic returns as the competition got underway earlier this week and made it a memorable affair.

Opening for Mumbai, Rohit blasted 155 against Sikkim to lead a dominant eight-wicket win while Kohli struck 131 as Delhi brushed aside Andhra by four wickets.

Their rare appearances drew plenty of eyeballs. However, the BCCI copped a lot of criticism for not live streaming the duo’s matches with fans wondering why the board couldn’t make arrangements to give them a chance to witness them bat.

Amid the questions, India bowling

legend Ravichandran Ashwin has defended the board and the broadcasters. The ex-India spinner noted how a decision on which matches will be shown live is taken in advance given the crowded cricket calendar and, given that the participation of both Rohit and Kohli was a decision that was taken at the last minute, it becomes quite difficult to make arrangements on such short notice.

“Fans are asking, ‘What the hell?’ Only Elon Musk can telecast these matches on X,” Ashwin quipped on his YouTube channel. “Everyone wants to follow Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—no doubt about that. They had a great series and will face New Zealand next. They might play many more matches before the 2027 World Cup. Both turned up, and how! One scored 150, the other 130, both at incredible strike rates. When players like them are on the field, the matches become more exciting.”

“Of course, everyone wants to see Rohit and Virat in action. But we need to consider how early the broadcasters knew they would play. When the international calendar is released, the domestic calendar comes out at the same time. After that, the BCCI and broadcasters decide in advance which stadiums are easier to cover and which matches can be televised. There was discussion that Rohit and Virat would play, but the question was when. Making a last-minute switch is not easy,” he added.