Indian T20 Legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma concluded their T20 International career on a high note, announcing their retirement shortly after India secured their second T20 World Cup title in Barbados.

Kohli stated, “This was my final T20 World Cup, and achieving this victory was exactly what we aimed for,” after being named Player of the Match for his 59-ball 76 in India’s thrilling seven-run win over South Africa. “Cricket is an incredible game. I was telling Rohit earlier today that some days you feel you can’t score a run, and then everything just clicks. God is great. I bow my head in gratitude and am truly thankful that I could deliver for the team when it mattered most.

“This is my last T20 game for India, and my final World Cup,” Kohli continued. “I wanted to make the most of this opportunity. Our goal was to win an ICC tournament and lift the cup. As I mentioned, the significance of the occasion helped me stay focused and respect the situation, rather than forcing things. I played the game the way my team needed me to.”

“Yes, I have. This was widely known, it wasn’t something I would have kept quiet if we hadn’t won,” Kohli confirmed when asked about his retirement. “This T20 World Cup was my last playing for India. It’s time for the next generation to step up. Over the past two years, we’ve seen some incredible players emerge in India, and they will lead the team forward in T20 cricket, much like they’ve excelled in the IPL. I’m confident they will continue to uphold the team’s legacy and take it to new heights.”

Rohit Sharma also disclosed this during the press conference, following in the footsteps of Virat Kohli, who had announced his retirement during the post-match presentation.

“This was my final T20I game as well. There couldn’t have been a better time to bid farewell to this format. I’ve cherished every moment of it. I began my career with India playing T20Is. Winning the World Cup was my aspiration.

“I desired it deeply. It’s hard to express in words. This was an immensely emotional moment for me. I have yearned for this title throughout my life. I’m thrilled that we finally achieved it.”

Brief History of Indian T20 Legends:

Virat Kohli

Early Career:

• Debut: Virat Kohli made his T20 International (T20I) debut for India on June 12, 2010, against Zimbabwe.
• Rise to Prominence: Kohli quickly established himself as a key player in India’s batting lineup with his consistency and aggressive batting style.

Achievements:

• World T20: Kohli has been a standout performer in ICC World T20 tournaments. He was the highest run-scorer in the 2014 and 2016 editions and was named Player of the Tournament both times.
• Records: He became the fastest player to score 2,000 and then 3,000 runs in T20I cricket. Kohli has also held the record for most runs in a calendar year in T20Is.
• Captaincy: Kohli was appointed the captain of the Indian T20I team in 2017, taking over from MS Dhoni. Under his leadership, India has had several notable series victories.

Playing Style:

• Batting: Known for his aggressive yet technically sound batting, Kohli excels at chasing targets. His ability to play all around the ground and his fitness levels make him a dynamic T20 player.

T20 Career Statistics:

• Matches Played: Throughout his career, Virat Kohli has played 125 T20I matches.
• Runs Scored: He has scored 4,188 runs in T20Is.
• Batting Average: His batting average is 48.7.
• Strike Rate: He has a strike rate of 137.96.
• Half-Centuries (50s): Kohli has scored 38 half-centuries.
• Centuries (100s): He has scored 1 century.
• Highest Score: His highest score in T20Is is 122* (not out).

Rohit Sharma

Early Career:

• Debut: Rohit Sharma made his T20I debut for India on September 19, 2007, against England during the inaugural ICC World T20.
• Initial Years: Despite an inconsistent start, Sharma gradually became integral to the Indian T20 setup due to his natural talent and batting prowess.

Achievements:

• World T20: Sharma was part of the Indian squad that won the inaugural ICC World T20 in 2007. He has been a consistent performer in subsequent editions.
• Records:
  • Rohit holds the record for the most centuries (5) in T20 Internationals.
  • He is one of the leading run-scorers in T20I cricket.
  • Sharma also boasts the highest individual score in a T20I match (121).
• Captaincy: Rohit has led India in T20Is and achieved victories in various series. He is renowned as the most successful captain in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, having led the Mumbai Indians to multiple titles.

Playing Style:

• Batting: Known for his elegant and effortless batting style, Sharma can effortlessly switch gears and is capable of playing long innings. His ability to hit sixes and maintain composure under pressure makes him a formidable T20 batsman.

T20 Career Statistics:

• Matches Played: Rohit Sharma played 159 T20I matches.
• Runs Scored: He scored 4,231 runs in T20Is.
• Batting Average: His batting average is 32.78.
• Strike Rate: Rohit has a strike rate of 140.89.
• Half-Centuries (50s): Sharma has scored 32 half-centuries.
• Centuries (100s): He has scored 5 centuries.
• Highest Score: His highest score in T20Is is 121.

Comparison:

• Both have been pillars of the Indian T20 team with their exceptional batting skills.
• While Kohli is known for his consistency and chasing ability, Sharma is celebrated for his explosive batting and big scores.
• Both have had significant leadership roles, contributing to India’s success in T20 cricket.