Tirupati: Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir praised Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for their outstanding contributions to Indian cricket following their retirement from T20Is, highlighting their significant achievements. Gambhir emphasised their pivotal roles in securing the T20 World Cup 2024.

Reflecting on Rohit Sharma's legacy, Gambhir acknowledged his record-breaking achievements in T20Is, where he amassed 4231 runs in 159 matches, making him the highest run-scorer in the format. Rohit also holds the record for the most centuries (five) in T20 internationals and has led India to two T20 World Cup victories, first as a player in 2007 and most recently as captain in 2024.

Turning to Virat Kohli, Gambhir noted Kohli's impressive tally of 4188 runs in T20Is and his status as the highest run-getter in T20 World Cup history, with 1292 runs. Gambhir praised the duo for retiring from T20Is on a high note, clinching the T20 World Cup trophy, and expressed confidence that they would continue to contribute significantly to Indian cricket in One Day Internationals and Test matches.

"I want to congratulate Virat and Rohit for concluding their T20I careers with a World Cup triumph. They have been phenomenal players and have made immense contributions to Indian cricket. I wish them the best in their future endeavours," Gambhir remarked to reporters.

He further highlighted the nation's jubilation following India's T20 World Cup victory and extended his congratulations to Rohit Sharma and the entire team. Gambhir summarised

 the final match, where India, batting first, recovered from a shaky start to post 176/7, thanks to a resilient partnership between Virat Kohli (76) and Axar Patel (47). In response, South Africa's chase faltered despite notable contributions from Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen, as India's bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya, secured a crucial victory.

Virat Kohli's stellar performance earned him the 'Player of the Match' award, marking India's first ICC title since the 2013 Champions Trophy and ending their drought in ICC tournaments.

Gambhir's remarks underscored the immense impact of Kohli and Rohit in shaping Indian cricket's success story, both as leaders and as formidable players on the global stage. ANI