As India gears up for the much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has highlighted the importance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the upcoming tournament amid heavy criticism over their poor form with the bat.
With both Indian batting icons approaching the twilight of their careers – Rohit at 37 and Kohli at 36 – Kaif believes the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 may be the last opportunity to see the veteran players dominate on the big stage .
Mohammad Kaif urges fans to support Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as they approach career twilight
The former Indian batsman urged critics to give their blessings to both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, not hate, as they are two of the greatest white-ball players and are nearing retirement, so they deserve only love and support . at this stage.
After the Indian cricket team lost the ODI World Cup final last year, the pain was visible in them and they were determined to win the T20 World Cup 2024. Mohammed Kaif said that the iconic image of Sharma and Kohli holding the tricolor after the triumph is etched in his mind.
Kaif also noted that Kohli and Rohit's determination was evident when the duo helped India win the T20 World Cup 2024 and believes their contributions in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be no different, so fans need to show some patience and respect .
India need Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Kaif
The commentator pointed out that Rohit's aggressive start and Kohli's ability to anchor the innings will be crucial for India's success in the upcoming prestigious tournament. Mohammad Kaif said on his YouTube channel, “Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli holding the tricolor, the image is etched in the mind because India lost the ODI World Cup final. The two looked determined to win the T20 World Cup. They went and won there.”
Kaif also said, “You need Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the Champions Trophy. One is 37 years old, and another is 36 years old. They won't play anymore. Whatever they play, give them your blessings because they are great white-ball cricketers who won't be playing for much longer. They will contribute. If he plays well, then only you will be able to win matches in Dubai. Rohit provides the start by batting quicker at the start and Virat Kohli uses it to bat till the end and scores there. Give them your love.”
Mohammad Kaif warns India as he predicts South Africa's dominance in Pakistan
Meanwhile, Mohammad Kaif shared his views on the different pitch conditions in Dubai and Pakistan. The cricket expert pointed out that batting is more difficult in Dubai, where the average first-innings score in recent games is around 198. However, Kaif feels that batting is much easier in Pakistan, with flat tracks allowing for big scores, with an average of almost 300. .
The former Indian cricketer also predicted that South African players like Heinrich Klaasen and Aiden Markram can dominate due to the batting friendly conditions in Pakistan. He believes that in such conditions, the best bowling team will have the upper hand in the eight-nation tournament, warning India against low scores.
Kaif concluded by saying, “Batting is tough in Dubai compared to Pakistan. So India need to bat well to win the match. South Africa will score 450 in each match as the conditions are too good to bat. The ball does not return; use your feet and kick. So either team will win well in Pakistan.”