Former Indian captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ended all speculations about their retirement. On October 25, they confirmed that it's probably their last match on Australian soil. But, they still remain committed to the ODI World Cup 2027 on South African soil. After the unbeaten 178-run partnership, their former teammate Ravichandran Ashwin wondered why people doubted the senior duo. Ashwin lauded the Indian opener for his transformation and said that he was confident that the star duo will perform in the series.
“Rohit is looking proper fit and lean, he is able to run and is getting going. The quality of batting is always there, but if you are fit, you lose weight, you are able to feel light, your skill will take over. Rohit is looking a million dollars. He is looking all set and poised,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
“I do not understand why some people did not expect him to score. He has been one of your best white-ball batters over the decade or so. I was always very confident that he and Virat would both make runs. Virat was not at his best, but still he found a way to get those runs. The straight-drive he played was a sight to behold. All his fans will be very happy today.”
‘This is 3.0 now’ – Ashwin on Rohit
Ashwin went on to call this phase of Rohit’s career as his 3.0 version. He feels the Rohit is back to what he used to be a decade ago.
“The first is where he came in at first, he was talented and was batting in the middle. But he was not the Rohit he became when he opened for the first time in the 2013 Champions Trophy. But I feel this is 3.0 now. He played a very flamboyant style of cricket when he was captain, but under the current regime, you can see that 2013-2016 Rohit. I think he is going to continue churning these runs. He is moving nicely around the crease and looking light on his feet. This is a great sign for Rohit and India,” he said.
‘Playing now is a real gift for him’ – Ashwin on Kohli
The former India all-rounder believes Kohli is enjoying himself. He recalled how everyone celebrated in Sydney when he took his first run after two consecutive ducks in the series.
“Virat looked like he is properly enjoying himself. I think it is in his mind now that whatever he is playing now is a real gift for him and he has to enjoy this phase of his career. The whole stadium was clapping for him when he took the first single,” the 39-year-old said.
Rohit and Kohli will be back in action for the ODI series at home against the Proteas which will begin on November 30.