As Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue responding to critics with commanding on-field performances, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has stepped forward with a strong and heartfelt defence of the two modern greats. Harbhajan, one of India’s finest match-winners with the ball, openly questioned the credibility of those who feel they are qualified to judge whether Kohli and Rohit are still fit to represent India.
Speculation surrounding the futures of the two former captains has intensified ever since both announced their Test retirements earlier this year. With the duo also stepping away from T20Is last year, they are now available for only one format at the international level.
This has raised questions about their role in India’s long-term white-ball plans, especially ahead of the next ODI World Cup in 2027.
However, Harbhajan made it clear that he finds this debate unnecessary and disrespectful.
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“It is beyond our understanding,” Harbhajan Singh told PTI. “I may not be able to answer because I’ve been a player myself, and I’ve seen what happens—not just to me but to many of my teammates. It’s very unfortunate. We never publicly discuss these things, but they do happen.”
Expressing admiration for Kohli’s hunger and longevity, the former off-spinner said, “I am so happy to see a player like Virat Kohli still going strong. But it is unfortunate that people who haven’t achieved much themselves are deciding the future of such players.”
Harbhajan, India’s fourth-highest Test wicket-taker with 417 wickets, also highlighted the lasting impact Rohit and Kohli continue to have on Indian cricket. He praised both players not just for their consistency but for the standards they set.
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“They have always scored runs and always been great players for India,” he said. “They’ve done extremely well as batters and leaders. I’m so happy for them—they’re going very, very strong. More importantly, they’re setting the example for the younger generation on what it takes to be a champion. Well done, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, for showing the right path.”
