Sarfaraz Ahmed Supports Kohli and Sharma’s Cricket Futures

Dubai, UAE — Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed believes that Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should be allowed to dictate their future in international cricket. Amid discussions of the duo’s potential retirement following India’s recent Test series losses to New Zealand and Australia, Ahmed emphasized their invaluable contributions to the game.

“People should not even talk about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Their performances have been outstanding for India,” Ahmed told reporters on Sunday. “Virat Kohli has single-handedly won matches for India; his contributions are beyond imagination. The same goes for Rohit Sharma. He has led the team admirably during the 2023 ODI World Cup and secured the T20 World Cup title.”

Amid concerns about their future, Ahmed argued that the Indian team should continue building its lineup around Kohli and Sharma rather than pushing them towards retirement. “Let them play and let them decide what they want to do. You should make your team around them. Just as they bid adieu to T20 internationals, they will decide the right time for other formats. Teams should be made by including them, not removing them,” he stated.

In drawing parallels with Pakistan cricket, Ahmed also stressed the importance of organizing the team around current captain Babar Azam. “Babar Azam is a special player. Pakistan should create a framework allowing him to play full 50-over innings like Kohli for India. There should be batters around him who can take the lead in scoring while Babar focuses on steadying the innings,” he added.

Furthermore, Ahmed shared insights about the potential warmth that Indian players might experience if they ever played in Pakistan. “The people of Pakistan love and respect Indian cricketers. They are eager to see the Indian team play in Pakistan. International stars like Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Pat Cummins have all played here, and the security arrangements have been excellent,” he said.

Reflecting on cultural similarities, Ahmed pointed out that Karachi and Mumbai share many traits. “There is no difference—only a line separates us. The way people talk, their living styles, even markets feel very similar. I remember visiting old Sadar in Delhi in 2007; it felt just like the Sadar in Karachi,” he remarked. “We sincerely hope the Indian team visits Pakistan so fans can witness stars like Kohli, Rohit, and Bumrah in action.”

As the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 progresses, both Rohit and Kohli are expected to put forth their best efforts. Rohit has been providing quick starts, though he struggles to convert those into big scores. Kohli recently scored a fifty against England but faced challenges in the subsequent game against Bangladesh, raising concerns about his form.