Former captain Virat Kohli could be asked by the BCCI national selection committee to play the upcoming three ODIs in Zimbabwe in order to regain his form ahead of the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup.

Kohli, who last played an ODI series in Zimbabwe in 2013, as per reports asked to be rested for the three ODIs and five T20Is against West Indies to freshen up ahead of the two marquee tournaments.

According to an InsideSport report, the selectors want Kohli to play the three ODIs to get back his form with his last international ton coming almost three years ago in 2019. With Shikhar Dhawan set to lead a second-string side on the short tour, it will be interesting to see if Kohli agrees to play the series few days before the Asia Cup.

“Hopefully, the break allows him to rejuvenate mentally and get his form back. But without any competitive cricket, it will be difficult and that is why we want him to play against Zimbabwe. It’s his preferred format and will help him regain his form before the Asia Cup. We will take a final decision close to the selection,” a member of the selection committee told InsideSport.

VVS Laxman is likely to be the head coach as he had overseen the T20I series in Ireland and the first T20I in England while Rahul Dravid was occupied for the final Test between India and England. All three ODIs will be played in Harare.

India Tour of Zimbabwe Schedule:

August 18: 1st ODI at Harare

August 20: 2nd ODI at Harare

August 22: 3rd ODI at Harare