- As the popular saying in cricket parlance goes, the class is permanent and the form is temporary, which aptly applies to two of the greatest 50-over performers for India, viz. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, respectively. Mind you, both stalwart cricketers have retired from the classic format and the shortest version of the game this year. Both great servants of the game have nothing left to prove, with their impressive individual statistics speaking volumes, showcasing their tremendous contributions to furthering the game’s cause in India as well as globally. However, their selection to the recently concluded three-match 50-over one-day internationals in Australia raised many questions from cricket connoisseurs, experts, ex-players, and fans. Quite unfairly, one must say.
PC: Times of India
- In India, the very mention of cricket evokes passionate discourse where everyone becomes an expert, voicing opinions related to the sport. The selection of Rohit and Virat was no exception,as opinions flew thick and fast from everywhere. While few questioned the abilities of the proven performers, the lingering doubts about their match fitness persisted. To an extent, rightly so. Remember, both cricketers have hardly had any game-time before the series Down Under after retiring from the two other forms of the game. Also, several talented players are waiting in the wings to get into the playing eleven, who could potentially serve Team India for a very long time. Besides the above, the fitness expected at the top level was also in question.
PC: OnlyMyHealth
- Most appreciatingly, Rohit and Virat ticked all these boxes quite comfortably. Rohit emerged fit as a fiddle after shedding several extra kilos, priming up for the ensuing challenges. Of course, no one can question the fitness of Virat, who has set an extremely admirable benchmark on this front, even giving a solid run for the money for many youngsters in the team. It is mentioned that cricket is a great leveller. The first ODI saw both these proven batters fail miserably. While Rohit scratched around for a single-digit score, Virat was out without troubling the scorers. The second ODI saw Rohit score a fighting half-century, but only after struggling to set the pace upfront. Virat was dismissed again for a blob without troubling the scorers. Team India lost both matches and series.
PC: NDTV Sports
- Though the series was lost, the third ODI showcased the true worthiness of two exceptionally talented batters. While Rohit scored an excellent century, Virat scored a pleasing half-century and remained unbeaten, and the score of 236 was easily chased by the towering duo with such ease, finesse, and class. In doing so, they also shut all those doubters for the time being, allowing the bat to do the talking rather than react to mounting opinions from different corners. Both wish to represent Team India in the 2027 50-over World Cup to be held in South Africa. Team India would be well served by their presence, ensuring young captain Shubhman Gill is well supported by the experience of the duo in going the distance. Well done, Rohit and Virat!
