The Indian cricket team’s pre-season fitness camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru, has created buzz for all the wrong reasons. While almost every key player attended, one big name was missing: Virat Kohli. His absence has raised speculation about whether he is planning to retire from ODIs, too.

Rohit Sharma, Bumrah, Gill and Others Clear Fitness Tests

Indian ODI captain Rohit Sharma joined the camp after the IPL and successfully cleared the Yo-Yo test. Test captain Shubman Gill, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounder Washington Sundar, and youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal also took part. According to a BCCI official, participation in this camp is mandatory for all centrally contracted players. It helps assess player fitness levels before key tournaments.

Where is Kohli? Fans Ask the Big Question

Kohli’s absence has fueled rumours. After retiring from T20Is following India’s 2024 World Cup win and stepping away from Test cricket in May 2025, Kohli has been focusing only on ODIs. Since the IPL, he has been in England with his family. Although he shared workout photos from London, fans are still questioning whether he will skip the mandatory BCCI fitness camp.

Kohli’s Champions Trophy Legacy

Kohli last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where he was the second-highest run-scorer for the team with 218 runs in 5 matches. Along with Rohit Sharma, who led India to the ICC title after 12 years, Kohli had signalled his intent to play until the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, his absence now is causing fans to doubt his ODI future.

BCCI’s New Fitness Push: DXA Scan

Interestingly, Rohit Sharma also underwent a DXA scan test at the NCA. This test measures bone density, identifies areas of weakness, predicts potential injuries, and helps design personalised nutrition and fitness plans. Sources say Rohit wants to achieve 100% fitness before India’s big series against Australia in October.

Why This Matters Now

India’s next big challenge is the Asia Cup 2025, starting on September 9. With players like Bumrah, Gill, and Sanju Samson already preparing, the spotlight is now on Kohli. Will he return in time? Or will his absence signal a step away from ODI cricket too?

For now, fans remain glued to updates. Kohli’s decision could shape India’s journey to the 2027 World Cup.