Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif opened up veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future after the Shubman Gill-led side's seven-wicket defeat against New Zealand. Kaif, who also represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during his playing days, pointed out how India is still dependent on the veteran batting duo to win games.
Mohammad Kaif questioned Indian management
He questioned the management for creating uncertainty around their place in the side and asking them to prove their spot in every game. Notably, Rohit and Virat failed to convert their start in the second ODI against New Zealand, and India ended up losing the game.
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Kaif on Rohit, Virat's ODI future
Considering the second ODI, Kaif believes that it was high time that the management should accept that the batting duo is important for the team.
"Virat and Rohit got out early, and you lost the game. First, you were hanging a sword on their head that they have to prove in every game. When they do, you win. When they get out, you are losing games. So accept them. At least now accept it that they will be a part of the team for the 2027 World Cup and are our senior players. You want to take work out of them and not accept as well or give them credit. It cannot be like this. You show the number of wins under your tenure, the wins have come from Virat and Rohit. Accept that they are the backbone of the team. Tell this in the press conference," he said on his YouTube channel.
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Kaif's blunt take on Indian coaches
Kaif also took a brutal dig at Indian coaches for not giving enough credit to Rohit and Virat. Kaif also claimed that coaches are aware of their importance, but they won't admit that.
"Then you should give him more credit. Even if he is not playing regularly, India wins games when he scores. Given double credit then. When these two players get going, India wins games. Talk more about praising them. Look at the commitment, even if they play less. Even now, we are depending on these two. Only if these two score you will win the World Cup. Take this in writing. Even the coaches know this within themselves. No one will accept it on the outside. But inside, even they know and are hoping for these two to score so that if India wins, they keep getting chances to take credit. So then open up and give them credit. These things are very clearly seen," Mohammad Kaif stated.
Rohit and Virat's upcoming outing
Senior batting duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will now be seen featuring in the third ODI against New Zealand, which will take place on January 18 at Holkar Stadium in Indore.