“Those people are deciding their future who have not achieved much” - Former teammate’s brutal remark on Kohli & Rohit amid IND vs SA 2025 ODIs

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh opined that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are in an unfortunate position, having their commitment and abilities questioned constantly on the long road to the 2027 ODI World Cup. The veteran pair have hardly put a step wrong since their return to international cricket after a seven-month absence.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have had to be on their toes despite assurances from the team management that they are not on trial. The legendary duo have also reportedly signed up to play domestic cricket in the coming months to silence the doubters, and not give any reasons that can be used against them.

Both batters have been among the runs since their return during the Australia tour. Virat Kohli marked his comeback with consecutive ducks, but has been on a rampage since then, recording a fifty and two hundreds across his next three innings. Rohit Sharma also made a major statement with his improved fitness and the player of the series award in the 1-2 series loss Down Under.

Harbhajan Singh recalled how he and some of his former teammates have also been victims of the team management's desire for transition.

"I am not in a position to answer your question on why the legends have been put away or why they are being pushed away. It is beyond our understanding. I may not be able to answer because I have been a player myself, and what I have seen has happened to me as well. It has happened to many of my teammates, but it is very unfortunate. We don't talk about it or have a discussion about it," Harbhajan Singh told the Times of India.

"I am so happy when I see a player like Virat Kohli who is still going strong. It is a bit unfortunate that those people are deciding their future who have not achieved much." he added.

Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's rich vein of form is reflected in their place in the ICC ODI Rankings for batters as well. The Hitman occupies the top slot, while his partner in crime climbed up to the fourth spot, overtaking the injured Shubman Gill in the process.

"There was never a time when I thought he was not on track" - Harbhajan Singh on Rohit Sharma's run of form in ODIs

Harbhajan Singh revealed that he had full faith in his former teammates, and praised them for still going strong at the twilight stage of their careers while setting an example for the youngsters.

"There was never a time when I thought he was not on track. They have always scored runs and have always been great players for India. They have done extremely well as batters and leaders of the team. I'm so happy for them; they are going very, very strong — not just going strong but setting an example for the younger generation to follow, showing what it takes to be a champion. So well done Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for setting the right example," Harbhajan said.

The legendary duo will be seen next during the third and final ODI against South Africa on Saturday, December 6, in Vizag. The series is currently level 1-1 as India look to avoid their second successive ODI series defeat.