NEW DELHI: Numerous Pakistani cricketing legends, including Wasim Akram and Javed Miandad, commended the Indian duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for their impeccable timing in announcing their retirement following the Indian team's victorious campaign at the recently concluded T20 World Cup.
In a closely contested final held in Barbados, India showcased their prowess by outmaneuvering South Africa, securing a narrow seven-run victory to clinch their second T20 world championship title.
“I have always been a fan of Rohit's batting and try to follow him when matches are on TV. Kohli's greatness is there for all to see his records speak for itself but Rohit I am happy that he could win the World Cup for his country,” PTI quoted yesteryear's batting stalwart Zaheer Abbas as saying.
Javed Miandad, a legendary Pakistani batsman, expressed his belief that the two iconic players had chosen the ideal moment to step away from the game. He acknowledged their immense contributions to the sport and their respective teams.
“We will still see them in Test and 50-overs cricket but it is befitting for their career that they left T20 internationals in glory,” Miandad said.
Miandad said both the players remained role models for any cricketing system.
“The discipline and professionalism and fitness of Kohli makes him a top role model to follow and his admirers will be as good as him as well,” he said.
1/10:T20 World Cup: India's celebration as they become World Champions
Reuters
2/10:Rahul Dravid
<p>In 2007, under Rahul Dravid's captaincy, India lost to Bangladesh and were knocked out of the ODI World Cup. However, Rahul Dravid returned as a coach to the West Indies, where his Indian team became the only team to lift the T20 World Cup trophy without any defeat.</p>Reuters
3/10:Rohit Sharma
<p>Indian skipper Rohit Sharma became the only Indian to win two T20 world cups. </p>AFP
4/10:Jay Shah and Rohit Sharma
<p>BCCI Secretary Jay Shah's prediction of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lifting the World Cup trophy came true, as they were seen together celebrating the victory.</p>
5/10:Suryakumar Yadav
<p>Suryakumar's outstanding catch on the boundary rope to dismiss David Miller will always be remembered, as it played a crucial role in helping the team get closer to securing the trophy in a pressure situation. <br /></p>Reuters
6/10:Jay Shah and Rahul Dravid
<p>BCCI Secretary bids farewell to Indian coach Rahul Dravid after the final match of the t20 world cup</p><br />
7/10:Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya
<p>Captain and vice captain could not hold back their emotions as they have ended India's ICC trophy draught after 11 years.</p>ANI
8/10:Mohammed Siraj
<p>India pacer Mohammed Siraj celebrated India's T20 World Cup victory in Barbados, proudly waving the tricolour in celebration.<br /></p>Reuters
9/10:Jay Shah and Virat Kohli
<p>BCCI Secretary Jay Shah congratulates Virat Kohli on winning all the ICC white ball trophy. Virat Kohli has now won ICC ODI World Cup, Champions trophy and T20 World Cup.</p>
10/10:Rishabh Pant
<p>Rishabh Pant made a remarkable return to the national side after a life-threatening accident, playing a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup triumph with crucial runs and spectacular wicketkeeping skills.<br /></p>ReutersWaqar Younis, a renowned fast bowler, commended Rohit and Kohli for their exceptional performances in crucial moments, leading India to victories. He acknowledged their ability to deliver under pressure and guide their team to success.
The legendary pacer also lauded Jasprit Bumrah's outstanding bowling performance throughout the World Cup, stating that "he had become a pure match winner for India." Younis recognized Bumrah's significant contributions to the Indian team's achievements.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif attributed India's consistent success, which includes reaching three ICC event finals within a year, to the harmonious relationship between the team management and the players.
“Rahul Dravid and his support team deserve a lot of credit for what India has achieved today. He has given a clear pathway to the Indian team and to the players,” Latif said.
Shahid Afridi praised Rohit's outstanding leadership skills and commended Kohli's consistent performance in crucial matches.
“Both Rohit and Kohli have done the right thing to retire on a high after leading India to the World Cup title.”
Mohsin Hasan Khan, a former Test batter who has also served as a head coach and chief selector, praised the conduct of Rohit and Kohli. He believed that their actions have provided an excellent model for aspiring cricketers to follow.
“This is how you retire from any format in glory.”
Mohsin expressed his belief that India possesses a strong pool of talent in T20 cricket, which can effectively fill the void created by the eventual retirements of Rohit and Kohli.
“But I am very impressed by the hunger of these two senior players, particularly the way Rohit led the side to finally win a World Cup.”
Rohit's accomplishments in T20 international cricket are unparalleled. His record of scoring five centuries in the format remains unmatched by any other player.
Moreover, Rohit now has two T20 World Cup titles to his name, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the game.
