Mohammad Kaif Claims Some Selectors Want Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to Fail

Mohammad Kaif opined that some selectors and media are waiting for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to fail, but both are determined to continue their ODI careers on their own terms.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has highlighted the determination of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to continue their ODI careers on their own terms. Kaif noted that some selectors and media have been anticipating failures from the veteran duo, but both players remain focused and confident.

Kohli and Rohit showcased their class in the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. Rohit scored an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, while Kohli remained not out on 74 off 81 deliveries. Their 168-run partnership off 169 balls guided India to chase down 237 in just 38.3 overs, winning by nine wickets. Kaif believes their calm demeanour on the field reflects an extra determination to not allow external pressure to have a say in their careers in the 50-over format.

“In the back of their mind, they know that people are waiting for them to fail. There are selectors and some media people. Ab to zid bhi hai Virat Kohli ki, Rohit Sharma ki (both of them are determined). Look at their face, they appeared focused but calm. They have that extra determination. They will be determined to go on their terms in this format and not to give anyone a chance to remove them from the team,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Key for India in 2027 ODI World Cup

Mohammad Kaif also believes Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will play key roles for India in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The batters have proven skills to succeed on fast, bouncy pitches in South Africa, one of the three host nations.

“In South Africa, it is a must to have Rohit and Virat in the squad because of the experience they bring along. You need Rohit Sharma on South Africa’s bouncy track. Same with Virat. He plays well on fast, bouncy strips. Rohit Sharma has shown that age is just a number. You only fix things when they’re broken. People support Rohit and Virat because they know they haven’t done anything wrong,” he concluded.