Table of Contents
Rohit Sharma has shared his thoughts on the popular ‘Ro-Ko’ moniker used by fans and broadcasters for his long-standing partnership with Virat Kohli. The nickname has become closely associated with the two Indian batting greats, who have spent much of their careers playing together for the national team.
The tag has continued to feature during India's ongoing ODI series against West Indies, with both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remaining prominent figures in India's 50-over setup. Rohit revealed that the two have actually enjoyed the nickname and often laugh when they hear it being used during broadcasts.
Rohit Sharma finally reacts to ‘Ro-Ko’ nickname
Rohit recalled how the nickname first started gaining popularity and explained that neither he nor Kohli took it too seriously. Instead, the two have treated it as something entertaining that came with their popularity as India's senior batters.
The former India captain said the two would often exchange a laugh whenever they heard the phrase on television. Speaking to JioStar, Rohit said:
"I think we were together. This started, I think, when we were playing in Australia, or right after Australia when we came to India. That's when this started, and whenever this plays on TV, we look at each other and laugh. Which is good, it's fun. People want masala, so there you go, there is some masala."
What did Virat Kohli say about ‘Ro-Ko’ moniker?
Virat Kohli has also addressed the popular tag and admitted that he understands why it has remained popular among supporters. The former India captain said the phrase has a natural ring to it and can work particularly well from a broadcaster's perspective.
With Kohli and Rohit now playing only ODI cricket for India, their appearances together have become more limited than during the period when both featured across all three formats. Kohli said:
"Ro-Ko has a nice ring to it. It sounds nice, it sounds good, and people are having a lot of fun with it. Now that we only play one format, even from the broadcaster's perspective, I'm sure it's a very nice tagline to use - 'Oh, Ro-Ko aa gaye! They are back'."
There's a strong camaraderie between the two of us - Rohit Sharma on Virat Kohli
Rohit Sharma also spoke about the relationship he shares with Kohli after nearly two decades of playing alongside him for India. Rohit made his international debut in 2007, while Kohli entered the international scene a year later.
The pair have since been involved in some of India's biggest cricketing moments, including major ICC tournaments. Rohit said their methods may differ, but their commitment to the team has remained similar throughout their careers.
"Both of us, we've almost started playing at the same time. I made my debut in 2007, he made his debut in 2008. And since then, we've been trying to give our best for the team. So yeah, there's a strong camaraderie between the two of us, and we understand what it requires to be at a certain level when you're playing at this level."
Rohit Sharma also backed Kohli to continue approaching the game in the same manner despite the changes in his career.
"For what he has done for the team, for this team, there is no question, there is no asking what has he done. It's there for everyone to see it. And what he is going to do from here on now, I don't think anything has changed. He'll be the same Kohli that we know of: wants to come, prepare well, go get the runs, win games for Team India."
Also Read: Rohit Sharma reveals his 2027 World Cup chats with Virat Kohli
