Shami ‘Shocked’ by Rohit and Kohli Retirement, Veteran Pacer Responds

"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" says Shami

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Fast bowler Mohammed Shami voiced his surprise at Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s announcement of their retirement from the T20 Internationals, stating it will be difficult to replace them in the team. At the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, India defeated South Africa by seven runs to win their second T20 World Cup. After winning Player-of-the-Match for his 59-ball 76, Kohli said that this was the final T20 of his international career. After finishing his Twenty20 International career with 4188 runs in 125 games at an average of 48.69 and a strike rate of 137.04, the right-hander was India’s second-highest run scorer in the competition.

Later, during the press conference held after the game, Rohit revealed that he would be concluding his Twenty20 international career with Virat, finishing as the best scorer with 4231 runs in 159 matches and holding the record for the most century in men’s Twenty20 internationals via splendid tons.

“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. 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,” said Shami.

“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,” he added.

In light of India’s championship triumph, Shami praised supporters for raising the team’s spirits during the campaign and complimented Team India and support personnel on their success.

“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,” said the 33-year-old pacer.

“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,” he concluded.

“I truly appreciate that our Prime Minister has a passion for the sport and personally congratulates our champions after their victories,” Shami remarked in reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s phone call to Men in Blue following India’s victory. It gives the team a lot more confidence.”

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