Former India all-rounder and 1983 World Cup champion Madan Lal has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma a farewell befitting their immense contribution to Indian cricket — something on the lines of Rafael Nadal’s emotional retirement ceremony in tennis.
The legendary duo, who recently announced their retirements from Test and T20 International cricket, have left their fans wondering about their future in the ODI format. With the 2027 ODI World Cup still a few years away, the team management and selectors are uncertain about their long-term plans. However, both Kohli and Rohit have previously expressed a desire to feature in that tournament.
Their last appearance for India came in March, during the Champions Trophy final, where they played key roles in India’s triumph over New Zealand.
“Rohit and Virat still have a lot of cricket left in them. They deserve a farewell that brings tears to every eye — something like what the world witnessed when Rafael Nadal retired,” Madan Lal said on Cricket Predicta TV.
“India must honour them the same way. Players like them are once-in-a-generation,” he added.
Lal also praised Kohli’s commitment and intensity, highlighting his unmatched fitness and passion for Indian cricket. “Virat now needs to step out of his comfort zone as he faces a formidable Australian side. He has given everything to Indian cricket — his passion, fitness, and hunger have set the highest standards,” Lal said.
Both players, after retiring from Tests and T20Is, are now in Australia for the upcoming ODI series, which could mark their final appearance in the country wearing India’s blue jersey. Upon arrival, Kohli and Rohit immediately hit the nets, spending extended hours fine-tuning their batting and preparing for the much-anticipated showdown against Australia.
As speculation swirls over their ODI futures, fans and experts alike believe that if this is indeed the final chapter for the two modern greats, BCCI should ensure a farewell worthy of their legacy.
