Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli played their first Vijay Hazare Trophy match after a decade.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has commented on the growing frustration among fans regarding the limited television coverage of the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 group-stage clashes, including games of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Ashwin stated that he understands the disappointment but urges the fans to consider the logistical challenges faced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The VHT 2025-26 began on December 24, featuring several Indian regular players. The veteran star duo, who returned to domestic cricket after several years, added excitement to the competition with their respective hundreds. However, the matches, involving Rohit (Mumbai vs Sikkim) and Virat (Delhi vs Andhra), were not broadcast or live-streamed.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin recognised the frustration among fans who were eager to see their heroes, but defended the BCCI with a strong explanation.
“Fans are saying only Elon Musk could stream these matches on X. Everyone wants to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but their participation was confirmed late. Once the international and domestic schedules are set, broadcasters plan logistics. It’s tough to change that at the last moment,” Ashwin explained.
Rohit Sharma smashed an impressive 155 off 94 balls while chasing, laced with 18 fours and nine sixes. Virat Kohli also followed suit while chasing, hammering 131 off 101 balls, with 14 fours and three maximums.
Though live streaming or broadcasting wasn’t available, fans were allowed to watch Mumbai’s match in Jaipur from the stands. But the Delhi vs Andhra clash, involving Virat Kohli, was played behind closed doors. The match took place at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
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While Ashwin sympathises with fans, he stressed the reality of Indian domestic cricket and its vast structure.
“I understand the frustration, but there are limits. India has the most First-Class teams. You can’t show all the matches. Other players also want to show their skills and are vital to the structure. I think we should give a little grace in this situation,” he added.
On the opening day of the VHT 2025-26, all 38 teams played. While 19 matches were occurring simultaneously, the BCCI streamed only two games: Puducherry vs Tamil Nadu in Ahmedabad and Hyderabad vs Uttar Pradesh in Rajkot.
It is understood that the only other game featuring Rohit and Virat will also not be broadcast, as broadcasting facilities are available at only two venues: Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. Notably, matches held on the ‘B’ grounds at these venues will not be televised.
Ahmedabad
Rajkot
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