Gautam Gambhir, considered a frontrunner for the role of India's head coach following Rahul Dravid, praised Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for ending their T20I careers on a high note with a World Cup triumph, describing their farewell as exceeding any scripted ending.
“They have retired with the World Cup win, and probably better than any script that was written. Both players are great. They have done a lot for Indian cricket, and congratulate them and wish them all the best,” Gambhir told PTI videos.
While acknowledging their retirement from T20Is, Gambhir expressed hope for continued stellar performances from both players in Test cricket and ODIs.
“But they are going to play two more formats – Test cricket and ODI cricket. I am sure they are going to keep contributing to the country and the team,” said the former opener.
Reflecting on Kohli's T20 career, veteran off-spinner R Ashwin hailed him as a mythical figure and recalled some of his standout innings. "Virat Kohli has played his final T20 match, capping off a stellar career. Among his unforgettable innings are those against Australia in the 2016 T20 World Cup quarterfinals and South Africa in the 2014 T20 World Cup semifinals. He truly is a legend," Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel.
Former India pacer-turned-commentator Atul Wassan supported Kohli and Rohit's decision to retire at this juncture, emphasizing the importance of grooming the next generation for upcoming tournaments. “It was bound to happen. The team needs to focus on preparing for the next World Cup. They may be great players, but if they linger, it won't benefit the team. We need to pave the way for youngsters and groom them for the upcoming World Cup,” Wassan explained.
BCCI joint secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted that despite Kohli and Rohit's retirement from T20Is, India's victory will elevate the stature of Indian cricket globally.
"Fantastic win. I am sure this win will not only give a big boost to the development of cricket in India but in the other parts of the world too.
“Retirement is part and parcel of the game but this win has taken Indian cricket to a different level from today onwards,” Saikia told PTI videos.
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