Explained: Why Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma cannot play county cricket before India's Test Series vs England

India's top batters, captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli, are both currently struggling in red-ball cricket. Their recent performances in the Border Gavaskar Trophy have piqued the interest of fans and commentators alike, with some even saying that retirement from the longest format is a viable option.

Kohli scored 190 runs in 9 innings, at an average of 23.75, however Rohit struggled, scoring only 31 runs at an average of 6.20. Rohit's troubles were substantial enough that he chose to withdraw from the final Test, sparking rumors that he may have played his final Test for India.

With India's tour of England coming up in June, both players may find it helpful to play county cricket to acclimate to the English conditions before the series begins. This might be a critical step in regaining their form and confidence in red ball cricket.

Recent reports reveal that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli would be unable to play in a county game. The problem stems from a schedule conflict: one round of county matches concludes on May 26, but the following round does not begin until June 22. Rohit and Virat will have no opportunity to participate in county matches between May 26 and June 20, since the England series begins on June 20.

Given the uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma's future in Test cricket, Virat Kohli's forthcoming five-match Test series against England might be his final chance to make a huge impression in this format.

Virat Kohli, who has not played a domestic match since 2012, struggled during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, especially with deliveries on the fourth stump line. His earlier journey to England was likewise disastrous, as he scored only 249 runs in 9 innings and averaged less than 30. Playing county cricket may have provided Virat with an excellent opportunity to polish his abilities and recover his confidence.

In the past, the Indian batting legend showed a desire in playing county cricket. Prior to India's tour of England in 2018, Kohli signed a deal with Surrey, however a neck injury stopped him from playing. Kohli will now have the option to participate in Delhi's final two Ranji Trophy league stage matches against Saurashtra and Railways before to the home ODI series against England.

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