'Dangerous to write off Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Joe Root lists out reasons, plays down age factor

Team India batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been in superb form in the ongoing Asia Cup and have powered India into the final. Both these batters have been the backbone of India’s batting for over a decade now. Virat Kohli continues to be the poster boy of Indian cricket, while Rohit Sharma has seamlessly taken over as the captain of the side across all three formats. How these players perform will play a big role in India’s chances at the upcoming World Cup. Speaking about both the batters in an interview with The Times of India, former England captain Joe Root was questioned about the two seasoned players where he said that no one should underestimate the potency of both the star batters. Root praised both Rohit and Kohli and said that as long as they maintain their fitness, they should be granted the opportunity to remain part of the Indian team. “I think it’s very dangerous just to write off players like Virat and Rohit because of their age. Look at how long Chris Gayle, for example, played T20 cricket. Some of the best players in the world have gone longer, especially in T20 cricket, and have been wonderful with their performances. As long as you’re fit, you go on and play,” Root said. Kohli, who will turn 35 later this year, became the fastest batter to amass 13,000 runs in One Day International (ODI) cricket during his smashing ton against Pakistan at the Asia Cup 2023. India captain Rohit Sharma too achieved several milestones of his own in the match against Sri Lanka. Rohit became the second-fastest batter to reach the 10,000-run mark in the 50-over format. He was the main reason why India got off to a rollicking start against Sri Lanka and his innings was the difference between the two sides. Joe Root cited the example of James Anderson as the player to look up to. As per Root, the pacer had surpassed the age of 40 but was still able to maintain top notch performance at the highest level. He also said that England take advantage Anderson’s wealth of experience and skill, recognising him as a remarkable talent and player in his own right.