The Untouchables: Why Rohit and Virat Are More Than Just Cricketers
There’s something profoundly fascinating about how certain athletes transcend their sport to become cultural icons. In Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli aren’t just players—they’re institutions. When Ravichandran Ashwin recently declared that ‘they cannot touch Virat and Rohit,’ he wasn’t just making a statement about their on-field credentials. He was highlighting a phenomenon that goes far beyond runs scored or matches won.
The Credentials vs. The Cult
Let’s start with the obvious: Rohit and Virat are statistical giants. Rohit’s nearly 12,000 runs across formats and Virat’s consistency as one of the modern greats are undeniable. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how Ashwin frames their indispensability. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about their cultural weight. Ashwin points out that dropping them would ‘break the roof down,’ and he’s right. These players aren’t just part of the team—they’re the reason millions tune in.
Personally, I think this is where the conversation gets interesting. In cricket, as in life, performance is only one part of the equation. Rohit and Virat have become symbols of aspiration, resilience, and national pride. Their fan following isn’t just a crowd—it’s a movement. Ashwin’s comparison with bowlers like Shami or Siraj, who, despite their brilliance, don’t command the same public outcry if dropped, underscores this point. It’s not a knock on the bowlers; it’s a testament to the unique position Rohit and Virat occupy in the hearts of fans.
The Noise and the Silence
Rohit’s recent century at Lord’s was more than just a batting masterclass. It was a statement. Amidst the relentless speculation about his retirement, he let his bat do the talking. What many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just about silencing critics—it’s about reaffirming his place in the team and in the hearts of fans. The ‘noise,’ as Rohit himself put it, is part of the package when you’re a star. But his ability to rise above it, time and again, is what makes him untouchable.
This raises a deeper question: How much does public sentiment influence team selection? Ashwin’s comments suggest that it plays a bigger role than we admit. If you take a step back and think about it, cricket in India isn’t just a sport—it’s a religion. And Rohit and Virat are its high priests. Dropping them wouldn’t just be a tactical decision; it would be a cultural one.
The 2027 Question
The BCCI’s focus on the 2027 ODI World Cup has reignited the debate about the veterans’ futures. From my perspective, this is where things get tricky. On one hand, planning for the future is essential. On the other, writing off players like Rohit and Virat based on age alone feels premature. Venkatesh Prasad’s assertion that they’ve ‘earned the freedom to take a call’ on retirement is spot on. These players have given their blood, sweat, and tears to the game. They deserve the respect to decide when to walk away.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Rohit and Virat’s longevity challenges the traditional narrative of cricket careers. In an era where players are often discarded for younger talent, their continued dominance forces us to rethink what’s possible. What this really suggests is that age is just a number—especially when you’re still delivering on the field.
Beyond the Boundary
If we zoom out, the Rohit-Virat phenomenon is a microcosm of a larger trend in sports. Stars like LeBron James in basketball or Tom Brady in football have shown that greatness isn’t bound by age or expectations. What makes Rohit and Virat stand out, though, is how deeply they’re intertwined with India’s cricketing identity. They’re not just players; they’re narratives.
In my opinion, this is why Ashwin’s claim resonates so strongly. It’s not just about their skills—it’s about their story. And as long as that story continues to inspire, they’ll remain untouchable.
Final Thoughts
As the debate over their futures rages on, one thing is clear: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are more than just cricketers. They’re cultural phenomena, and their legacy will outlast any retirement speculation. Personally, I think the real question isn’t whether they should retire, but how we, as fans and observers, will adapt when they eventually do. Because when that day comes, it won’t just be the team that feels the loss—it’ll be an entire nation.
And that, in itself, is the ultimate testament to their greatness.
