Despite swirling rumors and public speculation about their futures, cricketing icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are proving that their one-day international (ODI) careers are far from over. While some may argue their best years are behind them, a closer look at their recent performances in high-pressure situations reveals why the Indian team still relies on their experience and match-winning ability.
The conversation about their retirement has been a constant hum, especially after both players stepped away from T20Is and Tests. However, as the focus shifts to ODIs, the duo—affectionately known as “Ro-Ko”—has repeatedly demonstrated their enduring value. This isn’t just an emotional attachment to the stars who rose to prominence in the post-Fab Four era of Indian cricket; it’s a strategic necessity backed by recent results.
Rewind to a few months ago, and you’ll find compelling evidence. In a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan, India was chasing a challenging 252. The team found itself in a precarious position with key wickets falling early. Who stepped up? None other than Virat Kohli. With a history of giving Pakistan nightmares—from his unbeaten 183 in the 2012 Asia Cup to the unforgettable 82* in the 2022 T20 World Cup—Kohli once again anchored the innings, helping India to yet another victory in an ICC event. This was not a fluke; it was a testament to his ability to perform under immense pressure, a skill that remains undiminished.
Just two matches later, Kohli repeated his heroics, this time against a team that has caused India more pain than any other: Australia. In a crucial Champions Trophy match, with the specter of a recent World Cup final defeat still lingering, Kohli’s composed innings of 84 held the team together and provided the foundation for a crucial win. His performance was particularly significant given he had only played a handful of ODIs in the lead-up to the tournament.
The Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, is an equally formidable force. While there’s talk of a potential leadership change with Shubman Gill reportedly being groomed for the role, Rohit’s batting prowess remains a cornerstone of the ODI team. Following a difficult Test series, he showcased his resilience and ability to switch gears effortlessly. In the Champions Trophy warm-up against England, Rohit roared back into form with his 32nd ODI century, a masterful 119 that powered India to a successful chase of 305.
His best was yet to come. In the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, with the title on the line, Rohit’s measured and composed innings of 76 was the bedrock of India’s chase. While others struggled, his knock ensured the team successfully gunned down a target of 252, securing India’s second ICC title in two years.
It’s true that the expectations of a double-century from a 38-year-old Rohit or a century in every match from Kohli are perhaps unrealistic now. Their game has evolved, and so have their roles. But to write them off completely would be a grave error. They retired from T20Is and Tests after achieving all they could, but in the ODI format, they are still proving their worth with match-winning performances on the biggest stages. The BCCI and selectors, who have the responsibility of planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup, must recognize their enduring value and not rush to discard them. The recent past is a powerful reminder that writing off these legends is a risk the team may not be prepared to take.