Veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly defended star batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, dismissing any notion that they need to prove themselves further. Ashwin highlighted their recent stellar performances against South Africa, labeling the ongoing discussions about their form as ‘laughable.’
Following a brief period of adjustment after the Australia tour, both Rohit and Virat showcased exceptional form in the recent home series against South Africa. Rohit Sharma registered two impressive half-centuries in the ODI series, building on a century from the preceding Australia tour. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli delivered back-to-back centuries in Ranchi and Raipur, capping off his brilliant series with an unbeaten 60-odd in the deciding match and earning the ‘Player of the Series’ award.
Speaking on his platform, Ashwin questioned the validity of the criticism. “They have been playing so well. What else do you want? They played well in Australia, in bouncy and quick conditions,” he stated. Ashwin also expressed his belief that both players deserve a place in the 2027 World Cup squad, citing Rohit’s dedication to fitness and Virat’s consistent batting prowess as testaments to their hard work. “The fact that both of them have to prove is itself a laughable thing. What do they need to prove?” Ashwin queried.
Ashwin singled out Virat’s audacious ‘no-look six’ and Rohit’s powerful front-foot pull shot as the standout moments of the series. Virat concluded the ODI series as the leading run-scorer with an outstanding 302 runs at an average of 151.00, including two centuries and a half-century, with a strike rate exceeding 117. Rohit Sharma also contributed significantly with 148 runs in three innings, averaging 48.66 with a strike rate above 110 and two fifties. This year, the formidable duo, often referred to as ‘Ro-Ko,’ have been India’s top run-getters in ODIs. Virat has amassed 651 runs in 13 matches, averaging 65.10 with three centuries and four fifties. Rohit has scored 650 runs in 14 innings, maintaining an average of 50.00 and a strike rate over 100, with two centuries and four fifties.