Old Dogs, New Fire: Kohli and Rohit Silence Critics in Style
In a stunning display of timeless class, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma didn’t just chase down a target—they chased away doubts about their place in the Indian ODI setup. Their masterclass in the third ODI against Australia wasn’t just a win; it was a statement.
The ‘Old Dogs’ Remark That Lit the Fuse
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, known for his candid takes, playfully referred to the duo as “old dogs” during the post-match chat. His exact words? “You two old dogs still have a sting in the tail” . The comment, meant as a backhanded compliment, highlighted the narrative that the veteran pair are past their prime.
Rohit Sharma, ever the calm captain, simply smiled and replied, “Looks like it. Yes, we enjoy our cricket” . Kohli, though quieter, let his bat do the talking—again.
By the Numbers: A Partnership for the Ages
Their on-field response was unequivocal. Chasing Australia’s total, Rohit smashed an unbeaten century while Kohli anchored the innings with a fluent half-century. Together, they shared a match-winning partnership that sealed a nine-wicket victory for India and wrapped up the series.
| Player | Runs | Balls | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma (c) | 102* | 98 | 104.08 |
| Virat Kohli | 67 | 74 | 90.54 |
More Than Just Runs: A Legacy Reaffirmed
At a time when young guns like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal are knocking on the door, Kohli and Rohit’s performance was a powerful reminder of their irreplaceable value. Shastri himself acknowledged that their legacy “will always remain irrespective of when they decide to retire” .
But this wasn’t about legacy—it was about relevance. In a format increasingly dominated by power-hitters and rapid rotations, their ability to read a chase, build an innings, and finish with authority is a rare craft.
The Supporting Cast: Harshit Rana Shines Too
While the spotlight was on the veterans, pacer Harshit Rana delivered a breakout performance with the ball, dismantling the Australian top order and setting the tone for India’s dominance. His figures were a testament to the depth India is building for the future.
What’s Next for India’s Veteran Core?
With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the debate around team composition will only intensify. But performances like this one make selection headaches a luxury problem. As Shastri noted, “form is crucial, young guns nipping at their heels” , but when the old dogs deliver, you don’t bench them—you celebrate them.