‘It’s difficult to say’: Former India captain addresses future of Kohli-Rohit in ODI Cricket

Former India captain says it's hard to predict the ODI future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stressing decisions will depend on form, fitness, and team strategy.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma (Image Credit: ESPNCricinfo)

Whispers are growing about the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the ODI format. As stalwarts of Indian cricket, their presence in ODIs has been almost assured for years. However, both of them recently retired from the Test and T20I formats and that have fueled speculation about their next moves.

Of course, the fans don’t want either of them to retire from the ODI format as well. They are hoping to see them till the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, the recent speculations have been a concerning sign not just for the fans but for the team as well. Meanwhile, former legendary India captain, Sourav Ganguly, recently reacted to the rumours.

When asked about the possibility of the duo nearing the end of their ODI careers, he urged everyone to keep the focus on merit rather than speculation. “It’s difficult to say. Whoever does well will play. If they do well, they should continue. Kohli’s one-day record is phenomenal, even Rohit Sharma’s. Both of them are phenomenal in white-ball cricket,” Ganguly told PTI.

And he’s not wrong, actually, because the numbers speak for themselves. Kohli’s record in ODIs remains unmatched in the modern game. With over 14,000 runs and 51 centuries, the most by any player, he has consistently been the backbone of India’s batting for more than a decade.

Rohit, on the other hand, still holds the record for the highest individual score in the format with his breathtaking 264 against Sri Lanka and has racked up over 11,000 runs at the top of the order.

At the same time, India’s next generation is knocking loudly on the door. Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Sai Sudharsan have already shown glimpses of their ability on the big stage.

Read more: Reports: BCCI might force Kohli-Rohit to retire after Australia series

But when you play in a tournament like the ODI World Cup, which is known to be the pinnacle of all cricket tournaments, experience matters, so it would be good for the Indian team if Kohli and Rohit play more.

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