As time goes on, we are getting closer to the end of a significant period in Indian cricket, as stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli approach retirement. However, ex-Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar thinks there’s still plenty of time before that happens.
During an episode of the Rao Podcast, Bangar expressed his belief that players like Rohit Sharma will keep playing for quite a while longer, pointing out that legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid played well into their 40s.
Bangar said on the podcast, “I believe Rohit will keep playing as long as his body and fitness permit.”
He added, “Sachin played until he was 40, and so did Rahul. With improved fitness standards and more professionals, including nutritionists, taking care of players, careers are likely to last longer.”
For years, every graceful shot by Kohli from Delhi was matched by a powerful pull from Mumbai’s Rohit Sharma, as the pair dominated world cricket over the years.
However, earlier this year, both Kohli and Rohit declared they would no longer play in the shorter international matches after India won the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Bangar, however, still thinks that Kohli will continue to contribute to the national team in the longer game formats, particularly in Test cricket.
“Even with Virat, it depends on his physical condition. He would likely continue playing Test cricket, and I believe we will see him in this format for at least another five years,” Bangar mentioned.
But what would encourage them to keep playing? According to Bangar, it’s the newer formats of the game.
The ex-batting coach explained how the increased number of ICC tournaments nowadays constantly gives players objectives to strive for. And even without these tournaments, the duo has another goal with India: winning the World Test Championship.
“Nowadays, the World Cup takes place every two years or even annually with the ICC tournaments. I don’t believe this would have been a significant factor. Just because India won the World Cup, it doesn’t mean Rohit will leave the team.”
“Rohit has experienced success, and India still aims to win the World Test Championship — there are still goals to achieve.”
