Mohammed Shami thanks Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli for retiring from T20Is
Published - 03 Jul 2024, 06:30 PM
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Senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami was left shocked after hearing the news of the retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the T20I format. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma decided to retire from the shortest format of the game after India won the T20 World Cup 2024 title with a thrilling win over South Africa in Barbados.
Soon after India clinched the title, Kohli revealed that this was his last T20I and he wouldn't play any more international games in this format. Later in the post-match press conference, Indian captain Rohit Sharma dropped another bombshell by announcing his retirement from T20Is.
Mohammed Shami "Shocked" after the retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from T20Is
Shami revealed how he felt shocked after knowing that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma won't play this format anymore. He also added that both have been stalwarts for Indian cricket over the years and replacing them would be a challenge.
"The retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from T20Is was a shock. They have been stalwarts for India, delivering outstanding performances for the country for 15-16 years and earning their titles as kings of white-ball cricket," Shami stated.
"Both retiring simultaneously is shocking, but it's part of the natural cycle—when one player leaves, another steps in. However, replacing such stars in the team will be a significant challenge," he added.
"Bidding goodbye to a journey after achieving your goal is a truly emotional moment. I would like to thank both Rohit and Virat for winning matches for the team, playing amazing innings for India, and breaking records along the way," Shami thanked both Kohli and Rohit for winning India a no. of games.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma finish T20I career on top
Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma finished their careers on top of the run-scoring charts in T20I cricket. While Rohit Sharma sits on top of the list with 4231 runs at an average of 32.05 and a strike rate of 140.89, Virat Kohli is second with 4188 runs at an average of 48.69 and a strike rate of 137.04.
The 33-year-old fast bowler also congratulated India on a fantastic T20 World Cup win. He also added that only a few handful get a chance to be a part of a World Cup-winning squad.
"It's a huge achievement. Credit goes to the entire Indian team, the support staff, and the fans who boost our confidence. I would like to congratulate all the players who worked hard to remain unbeaten in the tournament. I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate those players who have contributed to the team's success in any capacity, as every little step and every prayer counts," Shami mentioned.
"Players who become a part of the World Cup are fortunate to have that opportunity, as only around 10 percent of players get a chance in their lifetime to be part of a World Cup-winning team," the veteran pacer concluded.
Mohammed Shami is currently out of the selection as he is recovering from his surgery. He is likely to make a comeback during India's home series against Bangladesh in September 2024.
