New Delhi: Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes life has come full circle for batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who now find themselves in the twilight of their careers in a familiar position — where consistent runs, once again, are the key to securing their place in India’s ODI setup, just as they were when they first broke into international cricket.
Following India’s nine-wicket win in the third ODI, Rohit emerged as the star performer, bagging both the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards. Freed from captaincy responsibilities, he thrived purely as a batter, topping the charts with 202 runs at an average of 101. Amid swirling rumours about the veteran duo’s possible retirements, both Rohit and Kohli answered their critics in style with commanding performances.
Kaif shared an interesting post-match observation — Kohli was spotted speaking on the phone while Rohit, clutching his two trophies, walked past head coach Gautam Gambhir. Though the two may have exchanged smiles, Kaif believes the moment reflected something deeper.
“Virat Kohli was on the phone after the game. Rohit Sharma, after collecting his awards, walked past Gautam Gambhir. They could have smiled at each other, but Rohit kept walking. It’s clear now — they’ve realised their respect lies in their own hands. If I score runs, I play,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.
He further elaborated, “When you’re new to the team, you know no one will back you unless you perform. That same mindset has returned in the final phase of their careers. It’s like saying, ‘Yaha koi dost-yaar nahi hai, main Hindustan ke liye khelunga’ (There are no friends here; I play for India). In such a scenario, it’s no longer about friendships — especially when people are waiting to replace you the moment your form dips.”
India, facing a potential 3-0 whitewash after losing the first two ODIs, found themselves on the brink before Rohit and Kohli stepped up in style at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
After the bowlers restricted Australia to 236, Shubman Gill fell for 24 in his first ODI outing as captain. Then, the experienced duo took charge — Rohit and Kohli forged an unbeaten 168-run partnership for the second wicket, guiding India to a convincing nine-wicket victory and preserving their proud record. Rohit remained unbeaten on 121 off 125 balls, while Kohli finished with a composed 74* off 81, silencing talks of their retirement — at least for now.
