Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta has argued that veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma deserve continued faith in the ODI squad due to their long-standing contributions and record of success for the Men in Blue.
His comments come at a time when questions are being raised about the future of both players in international cricket, particularly following India’s 2-1 ODI series defeat to England earlier this month. Having already retired from Test and T20I cricket, Kohli and Rohit face renewed scrutiny whenever their batting form dips.
Dasgupta emphasized that while Rohit, Kohli, and Shubman Gill form the core of India’s ODI strategy ahead of the 2025 World Cup, consistent performance remains crucial for all players to silence critics.
“Everyone has to perform, not just them, with 14 months left for the World Cup. God forbid Shubman Gill doesn’t score runs in the next two series. There will be questions asked even about his place in the side despite him being the captain. So performance is mandatory for everyone. Yes, some like Rohit, Virat and Gill deserve a longer rope with more chances because of their performances for an extended period of time. So they will get more chances than someone else,” Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.
“There is no need to constantly isolate Rohit and Virat” – Deep Dasgupta
Dasgupta added that Rohit and Kohli should not be singled out from the rest of the squad, as every player must deliver results as the team prepares for next year’s World Cup.
“There is no need to constantly isolate Rohit and Virat. They will have to perform like everyone else. So it’s not a debate about Rohit and Virat. It’s a debate about everyone, all of whom need to keep performing, with less than a year left for the World Cup. So leave them (Rohit and Virat) alone. Don’t treat them separately,” said Dasgupta (via the aforementioned source).
India’s next ODI assignment is against the West Indies, which will be played in India, starting on September 27.
Also Read
- Martin & Foxes must ‘find own way’ after struggles
- Shafiq and Shakeel Strengthen Pakistan’s Test Lineup for West Indies and England Tours
- India Coach VVS Laxman Calls for Enhanced Fitness as Young Star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Builds International Reputation
- Lewis Hamilton Penalty in Hungarian GP Sparks Debates Among F1 Fans