As characters, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are as different as a ‘vada pao’ loving Mumbaikar and a ‘chhole-bhature’ craving Delhiite. Yet, just as a graceful cover drive is complemented by a stylish pull shot, these two cricketing giants have balanced each other for over a decade and a half. Their contrasting styles have added richness to Indian cricket: Kohli, with his intense determination, brings the darker, more intense hues, while Rohit’s calm demeanour adds pastel shades that bring tranquillity amidst the chaos.
Their reactions post the T20 World Cup victory illustrated their differences vividly. Rohit, overwhelmed with emotion, was seen on his haunches and then lying on the ground, tears in his eyes. In stark contrast, Kohli walked back towards the dressing room, trying to mask his emotions, appearing both to absorb the celebratory atmosphere and remain somewhat detached from it.
Despite their contrasting natures, a deep mutual respect for each other’s skills and accomplishments has always united them. This respect extends to their understanding of each other’s personal decisions. Rohit was aware that Kohli had planned to retire from T20 Internationals regardless of the World Cup outcome. When Kohli announced his decision during the post-match presentation, Rohit allowed him the spotlight, choosing to reveal his own plans later in his unique manner at a press conference.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirement from T20 Cricket
Kohli’s announcement was no surprise; he had planned it, mirroring the meticulous preparation he brings to his game. “This was an open secret, it’s time for the next generation to take over. Win or lose, I was going to announce it,” Kohli stated, his words reflecting careful thought and perfect timing.
Rohit’s response to his own retirement was characteristically straightforward and spontaneous. “I never thought that I would retire from T20s. But the situation is such, I thought it is the perfect situation for me. Nothing better than winning the cup and saying goodbye,” he remarked, showcasing his instinctive approach once again.
In an era where two exceptional talents coexist, friction is inevitable. The Indian cricket scene is reminiscent of the adage, “Ek mayan mein do talwar nahi reh sakta” (there can’t be two swords in a sheath). However, in the high-stakes world of Indian cricket, these two ‘swords’ have learned to coexist, much like Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev did in the mid-80s, even before the advent of social media.
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