Legendary Indian batsman and current director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) VVS Laxman recently shared his thoughts on the retirements of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja from international T20 cricket.
It is noteworthy that Kohli, who is widely regarded as a legend of the modern era, announced his retirement from T20I cricket moments after winning the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup final by seven runs against South Africa in Barbados on June 29.
VVS Laxman reflects on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja’s retirements in T20Is
Indian captain Rohit Sharma also followed Kohli’s path, calling time on his T20I career at the post-match press conference after celebrating the 2024 T20 World Cup title triumph in Barbados.
Jadeja, one of the greatest all-rounders the game has ever seen across all formats, followed suit and announced his retirement from T20I cricket a day after his teammates’ retirement.
Well, acknowledging the immense contributions of Kohli, Rohit and Jadeja to the game over the years, Laxman praised the trio for setting high standards and serving as role models for generations.
In a heartfelt message, Laxman expressed his gratitude for the passion and pride with which Kohli, Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja played the game and paid tribute to their exemplary careers in T20I cricket.
However, they have bid adieu to T20I cricket but continue to play ODI and Test cricket, and Laxman is confident that they will continue to inspire young players with their play in these formats.
A big congratulations to Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja for their excellent T20I career: VVS Laxman
Further, Laxman highlighted their influence in the development of the Indian cricket team and their lasting impact on the game. Lastly, the NCA chief extended warm wishes to the three stalwarts for their outstanding T20I careers and expressed optimism about their continued contribution to Indian cricket in Test and ODI cricket.
VVS Laxman said in a video posted by the BCCI on its social media handles: “My message to these three stalwarts of the game – Virat, Rohit and I consider Ravindra Jadeja also an extremely talented player who has contributed immensely to the development of the Indian cricket team. A big congratulations. Thank you for all the contribution you have given to the great game.”
He added: “They are an example for youngsters to follow. The passion and pride with which they played is exemplary. Although they have retired from this format, I am sure they will continue to prepare as they did in their careers. A big congratulations on their excellent T20 career. I am sure they will continue to contribute in the longer version of the game.”
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How much does the #T20WorldCup win mean to India 🏆?
VVS Laxman reflects on that memorable day in Barbados ☺️ ☺️ – By @ameyatilak #TeamIndia | #Champions | #ZIMvIND | @VVSLaxman281 pic.twitter.com/ETZAxsgVj1
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 12, 2024
It is noteworthy that Team India is scheduled to play a three-match ODI and a T20I in Sri Lanka in July and August, but reports suggest that Virat and Rohit are likely to be rested for the 50-overs match of the tour, keeping in mind the upcoming packed Test schedule.
On the other hand, Laxman is currently in Zimbabwe with the Indian team as head coach for the ongoing five-match T20I series after Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended with the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup.