“India doesn’t have…” - Suresh Raina opens up on Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma’s ODI future

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Suresh Raina feels that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should continue playing the One Day Internationals to guide the young cricketers like Shubman Gill in the dressing room.

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Furthermore, he also feels that India doesn’t have a dependable opener and No.3 batter in this particular format. Also, Kohli has been irreplaceable especially in the white-ball chases as he is famously called as the chase master.

“India doesn’t have dependable players at No. 1 and No. 3 (in ODIs) at the moment, especially when chasing,” Raina told Telecom Asia Sport.

“Rohit and Virat’s experience is very important. It’s crucial for the seniors to stay involved with the juniors. Shubman (Gill) has done really well, but he needs players like Virat and Rohit,” he added.

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Moreover, Raina talked highly about the veteran duo’s performances in the recently concluded Champions Trophy 2025, which India successfully won after defeating New Zealand. While Virat Kohli played match winning knocks against Pakistan and Australia, Rohit was simply exceptional in the grand finale vs New Zealand, winning the player of the match award.

“They have won the Champions Trophy, they have won the World Cups. Virat won the last IPL also. For the astute leadership they have shown during their respective careers, they need to be part of the dressing room,” Raina stated.

Virat and Rohit would be next seen playing for India in the ODI series against Australia Down Under in October this year. Later, India is scheduled to play the ODI series against South Africa at home in November this year.

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According to various reports surrounding the internet, the duo might be suggested to play the premier domestic one day tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay in contention for the Indian team selection.

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