“I enjoy Rohit a little more” - World Cup winner’s massive statement on India’s superstars ahead of IND vs SA 2025 2nd ODI

Former Indian all-rounder Madan Lal hailed the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their heroics in the opening ODI against South Africa in Ranchi. However, Lal admitted to enjoying watching Rohit more because of his eye-catching shots.

The pair stitched together a game-changing second-wicket partnership of 136 off only 109 deliveries, helping India post a massive 349/8 in 50 overs. The total proved to be plenty enough as they bowled the Proteas out for 332 to win by 17 runs and take a 1-0 series lead.

Talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the ANI, Madan Lal said:

"Our ODI team is really good. With Rohit and Virat, it makes a very strong team. We already had a strong team, but with them, it becomes even stronger because they are experienced. Virat Kohli is such a clever player. He knows what he is doing. Rohit Sharma, as an opener, nobody can beat him and his shots. I enjoy Rohit a little more."

While Rohit recorded his third consecutive 50+ score in ODIs in the series opener against South Africa, Kohli completed his 52nd ODI century with his 120-ball 135. The duo have retired from the Test and T20I formats but remain active in the 50-over format.

"Sometimes, as a youngster, your bodies work, but your brains do not" - Madan Lal

Madan Lal further urged Team India to have a healthy mix of youngsters and senior pros in their squad for the home T20 World Cup next year. The Men in Blue have been in red-hot T20I form, winning 13 out of their 15 completed games this year.

"There should be a mix and match in team combination (for the 2026 T20 World Cup). It is essential to have senior players too, so that they can control the game. Sometimes, as a youngster, your bodies work, but your brains do not. So it is important to have someone who can control the game," said Madan Lal (via the aforementioned source).

Team India is the defending T20 World Champions, having triumphed in the West Indies and the USA last year. The side won the tournament without suffering a single loss.

Meanwhile, the 2024 T20 World Cup also brought the curtains down on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's stellar T20I careers.