‘Contribution is not…’: Ravi Shastri’s massive comment on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli | Cricket News
NEW DELHI: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who guided Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in their initial years, knows better than anyone how exceptional both batters are – both at home and abroad, especially in Australian conditions.According to the ICC website, Shastri believes that the legendary duo would not do anything to diminish their legacy by continuing their careers.
“The contribution doesn’t span two or three years. The contribution spans a decade, a decade and a half in Virat’s case. It’s huge and people don’t forget that. And they played against some of the best bowlers who have been part of the game. It’s special. Their legacy will remain. Whether they finish tomorrow or whether they finish the day after tomorrow or whenever. This legacy will remain,” Shastri said.Rohit and Kohli retired from Tests and T20Is over the last 18 months, leaving ODI cricket as the only format in which they continue to represent India.The pair made their much-anticipated return to international cricket since the ICC Champions Trophy final in March, against Australia in Perth on Sunday. However, both endured a quiet outing with the bat – Rohit scoring 8 off 14 balls and Kohli going for an eight-ball duck.Playing his 500th international match, Rohit opened the innings alongside Shubman Gil but edged one to the slips of Josh Hazlewood. Kohli, meanwhile, attempted a classy drive but found Cooper Connolly ahead of Mitchell Starc.India made 136/5 in a rain-affected 26-over match before Australia, led by stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh (46*), sealed a seven-wicket victory – their first ODI victory at Perth’s Optus Stadium.India will now look to bounce back when they take on Australia in the second ODI at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday.
