MS Dhoni Advocates for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's ODI Continuation
Dhoni Supports ODI Stalwarts
As preparations for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup unfold, former Indian captain MS Dhoni has expressed his support for ODI veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He believes they should continue participating in ODIs as long as they maintain their fitness and performance levels, emphasizing that 'age should not be a determining factor.' This statement was made during an event, with a video shared on the official YouTube channel of commentator Jatin Sapru.
The Pressure on Rohit and Virat
Since their retirement from Test cricket in May of the previous year, both Rohit and Virat have faced intense scrutiny in every match. The limited number of ODIs scheduled each year, coupled with significant gaps between series, necessitates their participation in domestic cricket to ensure they remain in form and ready for international play.
Dhoni's Perspective on Age and Performance
During the event, Dhoni remarked, 'Why not?' when asked about Rohit and Virat's potential participation in the next World Cup. He stated, 'For me, age is not a criteria. Performance and fitness are what matter. Everyone should be treated equally. When I debuted at 24, no one questioned my age. If I play for one year or twenty, my age should not be a concern.'
He further elaborated on the importance of fitness, stating, 'Even a 22-year-old who is unfit cannot play. It's not our place to decide if someone in their 30s can participate in the next World Cup; that decision lies with them. If they continue to perform and have the desire to contribute to the team, then why not? Experience is gained over time, and you can't expect a 20-year-old to have the same level of experience unless they are exceptional like Sachin Tendulkar, who started young.'
Recent Performances of Rohit and Virat
Rohit and Virat returned to the national team during the ODI series in Australia. Virat has been in remarkable form, bouncing back after a couple of initial ducks in the series. Conversely, Rohit has had a mixed performance, particularly in the ODI series against New Zealand, where he managed only 61 runs across three innings, with a top score of 26.
Both players also participated in two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for their respective states, Mumbai and Delhi, showcasing their skills and sharing their vast experience with the upcoming generation of Indian cricketers.
Statistical Overview
Since the tour of Australia, Virat has played in nine ODIs, amassing 616 runs with an impressive average of 88 and a strike rate of 106.39, including three centuries and three fifties. In comparison, Rohit has scored 409 runs in nine innings, averaging 51.12 with a strike rate of 91.12, featuring one century and three fifties.
Following their extensive T20 commitments, including the T20 World Cup and the Indian Premier League (IPL), the duo is set to don the Indian jersey again starting July 14 for a three-match ODI series in England.