Rohit and Virat retire from T20 internationals after World Cup win
India's captain Rohit Sharma and his opening partner Virat Kohli announced their retirement from T20 Internationals on Saturday, following the team's World Cup victory against South Africa in Bridgetown.
Virat Kohli (35) delivered a match-winning performance with a knock of 76 runs in his final T20 International, leading India to a thrilling seven-run victory at the Kensington Oval.
'This was my last T20 game playing for India,' an emotional Kohli declared after receiving the player-of-the-match award. 'It's time for the next generation to take the T20 game forward.'
Kohli retires with an impressive record of 4,188 runs from 125 T20 Internationals, boasting a strike rate of 137. His run tally is second only to Rohit's 4,231 runs from 159 matches, which includes a record five centuries.
Despite struggling with form throughout the tournament, Kohli delivered when it mattered most. 'This is exactly what we wanted to achieve,' he said. 'I am so proud to contribute runs for the team on the day it mattered the most. The occasion spurred me on, and I felt it was now or never.'
Later at a press conference Rohit, who was part of India's victorious 2007 squad also announced his retirement from T20 Internationals. 'This was my last T20I game as well,' the 37-year-old stated. 'There's no better time to bid farewell to this format. I've cherished every moment.'
Reflecting on his career Rohit added, 'I began my India career in this format and always dreamed of winning the cup. I was desperate for this title, and I'm thrilled we finally achieved it.'
Both Rohit and Kohli will continue to represent India in Test and One-Day Internationals.
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