Runs came from Kohli’s bat, Rohit hit sixes… Ro-Ko set a new game, the giants returned to their old style.

Mumbai:When Virat Kohli scored a brilliant century in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, the atmosphere of the stadium completely changed. This innings brought a mixed moment of relief and excitement for the spectators disappointed by the crushing defeat of the Test series. Kohli’s century seemed to breathe new life into the atmosphere. But amidst this celebration, the cameras kept turning towards Rohit Sharma again and again. A player who was going through unstable form and criticism in recent months.

Rohit had a smile on his face, but soon a video went viral on social media in which he was seen saying some abusive words in excitement over Kohli’s century. In the same match, Rohit also made a good start and looked in great form like in the previous round against Australia. This match played in MS Dhoni’s hometown Ranchi became special due to the performance of both the legends.

Rohit-Kohli’s old rhythm seen again

In the first match, both the players together made a partnership of 136 runs. Although Rohit missed scoring big, Kohli won the second match also with a century. Rohit’s style was even different in Visakhapatnam. The old confidence was clearly visible in his batting.

Yashasvi Jaiswal was in a little trouble, so Rohit took the lead in the attack in the beginning and played a useful inning of 72 runs. When the run chase had become easy, as if like a WWE tag team, he pushed Kohli forward to complete the job. Kohli ended the match by hitting a six without looking and scoring 65 runs in 45 balls. India won by nine wickets and Kohli was named Player of the Series.

Both the legends were again seen motivating each other to play better. It seemed as if the old competition of challenging each other had returned in their game.

new chapter of preparation

Rohit is believed to play cricket in a calm and composed manner, whereas Kohli always takes the field with concentration and passion. But amidst the ongoing speculation regarding the World Cup plans, a significant change was seen in the attitude of both of them.

Rohit lost weight during this period and took his fitness to a new level. On the other hand, Kohli looked fit as always, but in the ODI his aggression was more visible than before. In the South Africa series, he also took easy balls for sixes several times, which indicates his changed rhythm.

Rohit’s refusal to eat cake after the series win and Kohli’s jokingly eating it shows an interesting mix of friendship and competition.

Both are still pillars of India

In 2024, both Rohit and Kohli have become the highest run-scorers for India in ODIs.

Kohli – 651 runs

Rohit – 650 runs

Both have strike rates above 95 and both have four half-centuries each. Kohli is ahead in centuries. With 3, while Rohit has 2 centuries in his name. Both have now become the pair that have played the most international matches for India.

Effect visible in dressing room also

After the test series defeat, the morale of the team was very low. But in the ODI series, Kohli’s energetic body language and Rohit’s sharp form of captaincy were visible again. Be it the debate with Kuldeep Yadav regarding DRS or Kohli’s joke with the players, both the legends were instrumental in increasing the energy of the team. Sanjay Bangar also said that together they strengthened the team mentally and showed the right direction after the defeat.