Kohli, Rohit Silence Retirement Talk With Dominant Returns in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Veteran Indian cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma delivered emphatic performances in their return to domestic cricket, reaffirming their relevance with commanding knocks in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26.

With both players in the latter phase of their careers, speculation had grown over whether they should step aside to make way for younger talent. However, their performances for Delhi and Mumbai respectively sent a clear message that experience still carries significant weight.

Rohit Sharma Powers Mumbai Chase

Opening the innings for Mumbai against Sikkim, Rohit Sharma produced a blistering century, reaching the landmark in just 61 balls. At the time of writing, the Mumbai skipper had scored 104 runs off 64 deliveries, striking nine fours and eight sixes in a typically aggressive display.

Chasing a modest target of 237, Rohit’s knock put Mumbai firmly in control of the contest. He was supported at the top by young opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who contributed 38 runs before being dismissed.

Rohit’s innings underlined his enduring ability to dominate bowling attacks, even as he competes alongside the next generation of Indian batters.

Virat Kohli Reaches Major Milestone for Delhi

Playing for Delhi against Andhra, Virat Kohli walked in at number three during a chase of 299 and marked his return with both consistency and composure. With a single early in his innings, Kohli crossed the milestone of 16,000 career runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

He followed it up with a well-paced half-century and was unbeaten on 59 off 53 balls, including seven boundaries and one six, at the time of reporting.

Delhi remain well placed to secure a win, with Kohli anchoring the chase and a strong batting lineup featuring Rishabh Pant, Nitish Rana, and Ayush Badoni still to come.

Veterans Lead by Example

The performances of Kohli and Rohit come at a time when Indian cricket is witnessing a transition phase across formats. Their dominant domestic outings not only strengthen their respective teams’ campaigns but also reinforce the value of experience in high-pressure situations.

Rather than fading quietly, the two stalwarts have chosen to answer questions about their future with runs—once again reminding fans and selectors alike that they remain far from finished.