NewKerala.com

Shikhar Dhawan Reveals Why Rohit and Kohli Remain Vital for India

Shikhar Dhawan firmly believes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still have the drive to perform at the highest level. He points to their recent match-winning centuries and series performances as clear evidence. Dhawan emphasizes that their value extends beyond runs, as they lead from the front and set an example for younger players. Their statistics from the past year, where they topped India's ODI charts, strongly support his claim.

Key Points: Shikhar Dhawan on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Team Impact

  • Dhawan highlights their undiminished hunger despite immense past achievements
  • Points to recent centuries and series performances as proof of current form
  • Notes their role in leading from the front and mentoring younger teammates
  • Reveals both ended as India's top ODI run-scorers this year with stellar averages
2 min read

Youngsters continue to learn from them: Shikhar Dhawan speaks on Ro-Ko's effect in Indian team

Shikhar Dhawan explains why veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are still crucial assets, inspiring younger players with their hunger and performances.

"They are great assets, and youngsters continue to learn from them as they still lead from the front. - Shikhar Dhawan"

New Delhi, December 19

Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan believes India's veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still have the hunger inside them to keep performing, despite their achievements.

Dhawan also believes both Rohit and Virat remain significant assets to the team, leading from the front and inspiring younger players.

He pointed to Hitman's recent 100 and his performance on the Australia tour last month. Sharma and Kohli have retired from T20Is (post-2024 World Cup win) and Tests (earlier this year), and are active only in the 50-over format.

Ro-Ko ended as the top two run-getters for India in ODIs this year, with Virat making 651 runs in 13 matches and innings at an average of 65.10, with three centuries and four fifties, with a best score of 135 and a SR of over 96.

On the other hand, Rohit scored 650 runs in 14 innings at an average of 50.00 and a strike rate of over 100, with two centuries and four fifties and a best score of 121*.

"Absolutely. He recently scored a hundred and performed well in Australia. Players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have achieved so much, and they will step away only when they feel the hunger is gone. They are great assets, and youngsters continue to learn from them as they still lead from the front," Dhawan said at Backstage with Boria, to Boria Majumdar.

Kohli also secured the second spot in the latest ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings earlier this month while Hitman remained at the top. Kohli closed in on the top spot once again following his superb recent efforts for India in the three-match ODI series against South Africa. The 37-year-old was adjudged Player of the Series for his 302 runs across the three matches.

While Rohit amassed 146 runs across the Proteas series to hold on to his spot at the top of the rankings, Kohli closed to within eight rating points on the back of his unbeaten innings of 65 not out in the series finale in Visakhapatnam.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I respect their legacy, we must also be realistic. They are only playing ODIs now. Shouldn't the team management focus more on building a core for the 2027 World Cup? Their presence, though inspiring, might slow down the transition process a bit. Just a thought.
V
Vikram M
The numbers speak for themselves! Top two run-getters this year, and both over 35. This is pure dedication. Watching Kohli chase down that total in Vizag was a masterclass. Young players like Gill and Iyer must be absorbing so much just by watching them train.
S
Sarah B
As a cricket fan living abroad, it's incredible to see their longevity. They've adapted their games so well. Rohit's aggressive starts and Kohli's chase mastery are still the blueprint. Hope they play the 2025 Champions Trophy!
R
Rohit P
True leaders lead by example. After the T20 World Cup win, they could have easily relaxed. But no, they are still putting in the hard yards in ODIs. This is what separates good players from legends. Their work ethic is a lesson for all of us, not just cricketers.
K
Kavya N
Gabbar knows best! Having played with them for so long, he understands their mindset. The hunger is visible every time they walk out to bat. They play for the badge, not personal milestones. That's the culture they've built. 🏏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50