Kohli and Sharma Announce T20I Retirements After India’s T20 World Cup Triumph

In a dramatic turn of events, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirements from T20 Internationals (T20Is) following India’s seven-run victory against South Africa in the final of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup. Kohli, who was awarded the Player of the Match for his 59-ball 76, revealed his decision immediately after the match, which played a crucial role in securing India’s second World T20 title. Rohit Sharma confirmed his retirement during the press conference that followed.

Rohit Sharma reflected on his retirement from T20Is, saying, “This was my final T20I game. There couldn’t have been a better moment to bid farewell to this format. I’ve cherished every second of it. It all began for me in India with this format. Winning this cup was my ultimate goal. It’s difficult to express in words. It was an emotional moment for me. I’ve yearned for this title for so long, and I’m overjoyed that we finally achieved it.”

Rohit Sharma, who debuted in T20I during the inaugural T20 World Cup against England in Durban in 2007, went on to play 159 matches for India, amassing 4231 runs, establishing himself as the highest run-scorer for his country in the format. His career highlights include five centuries, with a top score of 121 not out against Afghanistan earlier this year, and he recorded 32 half-centuries. Additionally, Rohit Sharma concluded his tenure as the most successful T20I captain, securing 50 wins, which includes victories in Super Overs and bowl-outs, surpassing Pakistan’s Babar Azam by two wins.

In a recent interview with the official broadcaster after receiving the Player of the Match award, Kohli expressed, “This marks my final T20 World Cup appearance, and achieving this victory is exactly what we aimed for. There are days when you struggle to score, and then moments like this happen; it’s a testament to the greatness of God. It was a now-or-never scenario, and we were determined to lift that trophy.”

“Yes, I have announced my retirement from T20Is. This decision was widely anticipated. I had planned to announce it regardless of the match outcome. It’s now the time for the next generation to carry forward the T20 game. We’ve waited a long time to win an ICC tournament. Take Rohit Sharma, for instance—he’s been part of nine T20 World Cups, whereas this was my sixth. He truly deserves this.”

Kohli and Sharma’s retirements mark the end of an era for Indian cricket, as both players have been instrumental in shaping India’s T20I success over the years. Their contributions will be remembered as they pass the baton to the next generation of Indian cricketers.

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