Virat Kohli: Virat’s next… Kohli got warning amid news of Rohit Sharma’s retirement

New Delhi. Amidst the ongoing discussions about Rohit Sharma’s ODI future in Indian cricket, former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has also given a big statement about Virat Kohli. Ashwin believes that in the current environment no one’s place is secure just on the basis of name. He says that if Virat Kohli is not at the peak of his performance for the next few months, then the same thing can happen to him which is being reported to happen to Rohit Sharma.

The news of Rohit’s retirement created a stir
According to recent media reports, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar has reportedly indicated to Rohit Sharma that the team management wants to move forward for the future after the three-match ODI series against England. It is being told that the selectors are planning to try Yashasvi Jaiswal for a long time keeping in mind the preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup. This news created a stir in the cricket world, because except for a few matches, Rohit has appeared in good form in ODI cricket this year and is also continuously working on his fitness.

Ashwin’s warning to Virat
During a conversation on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin said that Virat Kohli is batting brilliantly, but despite this he has to continue performing well. Ashwin said, ‘Looking at the current situation, it seems that Virat will also have to remain at the top level of his game.’ Ashwin said, ‘He is in great form. I have never seen Virat bat like this. Ashwin wants Virat to be a part of the team in South Africa also. However, he also said that Rohit Sharma had also not performed poorly, hence the current circumstances are surprising.

Virat Kohli is in great form
Virat Kohli’s recent ODI record testifies to his excellent form. He has scored 310 runs in five ODI matches this year. During this period his average has been 62 and strike rate has been 103.33. Nevertheless, Ashwin believes that good performance alone cannot be considered a guarantee of the future.

Virat Kohli taking a shot during a match.

‘Seniors should be treated with respect’
Ashwin also expressed his opinion on the selection process and said that it is the right of the selectors, captain and coach to exclude any player. But players who have played for the country for two decades should be treated with respect. He said, ‘If any player has to be dropped then he should be talked to directly. Like big corporate institutions, there should be clear dialogue and respectful communication while removing senior people. The players who have played for the country for so many years should at least be told what the future plans are.

Big challenge before the selectors
Keeping the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind, the Indian team is going through a phase of change. In such a situation, on one hand the selectors are faced with the challenge of preparing the team of the future, on the other hand they will also have to keep in mind the respect and contribution of legendary players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Ashwin’s statement is indicating that change is necessary, but its method should also be equally important.