The cricketing world continues to reflect on the potential departure of two of India’s most iconic figures—Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—from the international stage. Former England captain Joe Root’s recent statement encapsulates the sentiment felt across nations and generations: “Cricket is poorer without them being around. They are two Indian legends. They’ve done amazing things for Indian cricket for such a long period of time.”
Root’s words came in the aftermath of India’s semifinal exit from the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, a tournament many now believe may have marked the final T20I appearance for both Rohit and Virat. The duo has been at the heart of Indian cricket for over a decade and a half, revolutionizing the sport not only with their runs and records but with their charisma, leadership, and influence.
Rohit Sharma, the ‘Hitman’, has redefined white-ball opening batting with his effortless timing, six-hitting ability, and three double hundreds in ODI cricket—a record unmatched. His captaincy has also been praiseworthy, particularly in limited-overs formats, where he has led India with tactical maturity and calmness. In T20s, he finishes with over 4,000 runs, five centuries—the most by any batter—and multiple ICC tournament knockouts to his name. While ICC trophies may have eluded him as captain, his leadership in the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup campaigns earned widespread respect.
Virat Kohli, meanwhile, remains the heartbeat of Indian cricket. A batter of supreme consistency, Kohli’s game was built on hunger, technique, and unmatched intensity. He owns nearly every modern batting record—from fastest to 8,000, 9,000, and 10,000 ODI runs, to the highest run-getter in T20 World Cups. Known for chasing down targets with cold precision, Kohli has become a symbol of Indian competitiveness across formats. His unforgettable 82* against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup remains etched in fans’ memories as one of the greatest T20I innings ever played.
Their combined absence would undoubtedly change the fabric of the Indian dressing room. With over 25,000 international runs between them and countless match-winning efforts, these two legends have carried the expectations of a billion people. Beyond their numbers, they’ve mentored the next generation—players like Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and others who now look poised to carry the baton forward.
Root’s comment isn’t just a tribute; it’s a stark reminder of what cricket might lose. Global cricket thrives on rivalries, characters, and iconic performances. Without the Kohli stare-downs, or Rohit’s languid sixes, or the drama they bring to an India vs. Australia or India vs. Pakistan clash, the sport feels less grand.
While neither Rohit nor Kohli has officially confirmed a retirement from T20Is, their possible exit leaves fans hoping for at least a farewell tour. The larger cricketing fraternity, including former and current players, will undoubtedly wish for one last hurrah—a chance to celebrate them not just for what they achieved, but for what they meant to the game.
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