End is near? Kevin Pietersen predicts how long Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma have left at the top

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has showered rich praise on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, as he reminded everyone of their legendary status amid the criticism and concerns over their poor form with the bat ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Kevin Pietersen has stressed that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli don’t need to prove anything to anybody, as they are already the absolute legends of the game.

Kevin Pietersen defends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli amid criticism ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Hailing their unmatched ability to entertain fans worldwide, the cricket expert feels the two Indian cricket icons still have a couple of years left to entertain the fans with their game.

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Kevin Pietersen said on Star Sports: “These guys don’t need to prove anything to anybody. They are legends of the game. They are wonderful entertainers. These guys have another couple of years. I absolutely love both of them.”

The former England cricketer also called Kohli the greatest chaser in cricket history. He highlighted how the former Indian skipper has single-handedly won countless matches for India.

He is the best chaser that India has ever seen: Kevin Pietersen hails Virat Kohli

Pietersen further noted, “He is the best chaser that you ever had in this country. There is no single batter in the world that has chased and won more games for the country than Virat Kohli. When he turns up, he’s got to play.”

Reflecting on Rohit Sharma’s journey, Kevin Pietersen recalled the early days when the now-Indian captain was just breaking into the Indian cricket team.

The Englishman also recalled Rohit’s fearless approach, especially against fiery pacers, smashing them for towering sixes with his effortless pull shots even in Australia. Pietersen said that he had realized that Rohit would become one of the greatest batters in the modern era after watching his cracking start.

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Kevin Pietersen had predicted Rohit Sharma is 'going to be very, very special' player

Pietersen signed off by saying, “I remember back in 2012... I think there was a bit of criticism about him, and I said this young kid is going to be very, very special. He needs to be looked after and played with. The guy was so good at the start and has continued to be great ever since.”

Notably, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who recently faced a lot of backlash for their poor performances in the BGT 2024-25 in Australia, have landed in Nagpur to join the Indian camp ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against England.

The first ODI will be played in Nagpur on February 6, followed by the second and final ODI on February 9 and 12 in Cuttack and Ahmedabad, respectively. However, they would be hoping that their Test form won’t follow them in white-ball cricket, as the duo also failed on their Ranji return as well.

They played only 3 ODIs last year, and the upcoming three ODIs are the dress rehearsal for the Men in Blue for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Both Rohit and Virat would love to have a great time in the middle against England before leaving for Dubai.