Two of Indian cricket’s biggest icons — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli — may be nearing the end of their international careers, according to former India batter Manoj Tiwari. He believes the duo could announce their retirement after the upcoming Australia series, citing how they are being treated by team management despite their legendary contributions.
Leadership Shake-Up Sparks Retirement Speculation
The speculation comes after Rohit Sharma was removed as India’s ODI captain ahead of the Australia series, with young opener Shubman Gill taking over. This means that both Rohit and Kohli will now play under Gill’s leadership — a significant shift in Indian cricket’s power dynamics.
Despite their desire to feature in the 2027 World Cup, many experts believe the current circumstances make that unlikely. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed Rohit’s removal as captain on October 4 and admitted there is uncertainty over both players’ futures beyond this season.
“Extremely Insulting”: Tiwari on BCCI’s Treatment
Speaking to CricTracker, Manoj Tiwari did not mince words while criticizing how the two stalwarts have been handled.
“Considering the contributions Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have made to Indian cricket, being treated like this is extremely insulting. I genuinely feel both of them may announce their retirement soon, possibly after the Australia series,” Tiwari said.
He questioned the logic behind the leadership change: “When someone is appointed captain, the goal is to win matches and series. Rohit Sharma was already delivering consistent results, and the team was performing well. So why was this change necessary?”
Rohit’s Record and Kohli’s Self-Respect
Tiwari highlighted Rohit’s impressive record, including leading India to the Champions Trophy title in the UAE just seven months ago. As ODI captain, Rohit boasts a remarkable winning percentage of 75%, with 42 victories in 56 matches.
He also linked Virat Kohli’s recent Test retirement to the team management’s attitude. “When a player, regardless of his stature, feels the team doesn’t need him or respect him, a person with self-respect cannot continue. That’s why Virat stepped away from Test cricket — not out of frustration, but out of dignity,” Tiwari added.
Under Kohli’s captaincy, India played 68 Tests and won 40 — a testament to his legacy as one of the country’s most successful leaders.
End of an Era on the Horizon?
As India heads into a crucial ODI series against Australia, the spotlight will be on Kohli and Sharma’s next moves. If Tiwari’s prediction comes true, the cricket world could soon witness the end of a golden era defined by two of India’s greatest modern-day cricketers.
Catch every update on Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on The Cricket Scores!
