The runs off the bats of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli don’t come as frequently as they once did. Kapil Dev, the captain of India’s 1983 World Cup winning team, suggested that it would be preferable for India not to place all of their World Cup winning hopes on Kohli and Rohit.
Indian cricket is already in a transitional phase. After hosting the World Cup this year, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s futures in ODI cricket are expected to be similar to those in T20 cricket. For about ten years, Rohit and Kohli have both been the foundation of Indian cricket. In limited-overs cricket, they remain among the top 10 batters in the world, but a lot has changed over the past few years.
Both of these stalwarts’ bats no longer produce runs as frequently as they once did, but a talent pool is ready and waiting for opportunities. Kapil Dev, the captain of India’s 1983 World Cup winning team, suggested that it would be preferable for India not to place all of their World Cup winning hopes on Kohli and Rohit.
“The coach, selectors, and team management must make difficult decisions that put team success ahead of personal interests if they want to win the World Cup.
“You should have faith in your team; do we have one? Of course; do we have guys who can win the World Cup, sure; but if you think Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and 2-3 players can win us the World Cup, that’s never going to happen, “Kapil spoke with the source.
The official all-formats captain of India, Rohit, has gone more than two years without an ODI century. In contrast, Kohli finally achieved an ODI century in the third game against Bangladesh last month, ending a 36-month drought.
According to Kapil, Rohit and Kohli have contributed, and it is now up to the younger players to lead the team ahead.
The legendary all-rounder said, “There are always a few players who end up being the pillars of your side. The team focuses on them, but we need to break that and construct at least 5-6 players like that. I say you can’t always rely on Virat and Rohit. You need players who fulfill each of their responsibilities. The youngsters will need to come forward and say, ‘it is our time.'”
Rohit will get close to 37 when the 2018 World Cup concludes at home, while Kohli will turn 36. According to Kapil, a superhuman effort will be required for the two superstars to compete in the upcoming ODI World Cup.
“The fact that the World Cup will be held in India is the biggest plus because no one knows the conditions better than we do. Rohit and Virat have been two of the most significant cricketers for India over the past eight to ten years, and many have begun to wonder if this will be their final World Cup. Many young players are coming up; will they be able to compete with them? That is a question, but it depends on how they want to play their game. I believe they can play, but they will need to work hard. Fitness will play a crucial role,” he added.
Beginning on January 10, India will face Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be back on the team.