Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary has sparked debate by suggesting that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could contemplate retiring from international cricket after India’s upcoming tour of Australia. Tiwary pointed out that the current treatment of both players may be complex for them to accept, despite their immense contributions to Indian cricket over the years.

Rohit Sharma was recently stripped of his ODI captaincy ahead of the Australia series, with Shubman Gill appointed as the new leader. Consequently, both Rohit and Virat will play ODIs under Gill’s captaincy. Cricket experts have noted that while both players might still aspire to feature in the 2027 World Cup, the current circumstances make that prospect uncertain.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed on October 4 that Rohit Sharma would step down as ODI captain, with Gill taking over. Agarkar also highlighted the ambiguity surrounding Rohit and Virat’s involvement in India’s future campaigns.

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Speaking to CricTracker, Manoj Tiwary said, “Considering the monumental contributions Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have made to Indian cricket, being treated like this is extremely disrespectful. I genuinely feel both of them may announce retirement soon, possibly after the Australia tour. A captain’s job is to win matches and series. Rohit Sharma was already delivering consistent results, and the team was performing well—so why was this change necessary?”

Tiwary also highlighted Rohit Sharma’s impressive ODI captaincy record, noting that he led India to Champions Trophy glory in the UAE just seven months ago and boasts a 75% winning percentage from 56 matches, with 42 victories.

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On Virat Kohli, Tiwary attributed his retirement from Test cricket to dissatisfaction with the team management’s attitude. “When a player, regardless of stature, feels undervalued or disrespected, someone with self-respect cannot continue,” Tiwary said. Under Kohli’s leadership, India played 68 Tests and secured 40 wins, reflecting his immense influence and legacy.

The statements have reignited debates over the future of India’s two white-ball legends and their role in shaping the next phase of Indian cricket.