Rohit Sharma’s brilliant century in the third and final ODI against England has once again sparked discussions about the future of India’s senior stars. Following the match, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said the team management cannot simply leave Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli out of the ODI side as long as the experienced pair wants to continue representing the country.
Ashwin made the comments after Rohit ended retirement speculation with a superb 138 at Lord’s. Although India lost the match by 27 runs and the series by 2-1, Rohit’s innings reminded fans of his ability to deliver in big matches.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also shared a century partnership during the chase, with Kohli contributing 74. Their stand gave India hope of chasing down the massive target of 388, even though the team eventually fell short. The partnership also highlighted the understanding the two batters have built over more than a decade.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have earned a special status through their performances and achievements over the years. He explained that because of their records and the impact they have had on Indian cricket, the team management cannot even touch these two players. Ashwin pointed out that Rohit has scored nearly 12,000 ODI runs and said both the players have built unmatched credibility.
Ashwin also noted that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli enjoy massive fan support and remain two of the biggest attractions in Indian cricket. According to him, leaving either of them out would trigger a far bigger reaction than if bowlers such as Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj or Bhuvneshwar Kumar were omitted from the team, reflecting the influence and popularity the veteran batting duo continue to command.
He certainly makes sense, what do you say?
