The notion of discarding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from India’s ODI setup is absurd. Their absence from recent matches doesn’t diminish their value—far from it. These two aren’t just players; they’re institutions in Indian cricket, and their ODI credentials are undeniable.
Let’s set the record straight: Rohit and Kohli are far from done. While they may not dominate T20Is or lead Test run charts anymore, their prowess in the 50-over format remains unmatched. Just months ago, the “Ro-Ko” duo showcased their indispensability, silencing doubters with performances that reaffirmed their centrality to India’s ODI ambitions.
Rewind to 2013, a time when Indian cricket faced a void. Legends like Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, and VVS Laxman had retired or were nearing the end, and Virender Sehwag’s spark was fading. The question loomed: who would fill the shoes of India’s Fab Four? Enter Kohli and Rohit. They didn’t just step up; they redefined excellence. Over the next decade, Rohit carved his name in history as the only batter with three ODI double-centuries—an unparalleled feat. Meanwhile, Kohli, thriving in his prime, arguably became the world’s finest batsman, blending consistency with brilliance.
Dismissing them now would be shortsighted. Their experience, skill, and ability to deliver under pressure make them the backbone of India’s ODI setup. The numbers don’t lie, and neither does their impact. Rohit and Kohli aren’t going anywhere—and they shouldn’t.
