India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph has once again highlighted the big-game brilliance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While the team had its ups and downs throughout the tournament, these two legends proved why they are the pillars of Indian cricket when it mattered the most.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik, speaking on Cricbuzz, heaped praise on Rohit and Kohli, lauding their ability to rise to the occasion in crunch matches.
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“They Just Know How to Perform in Big Games” – Karthik on Rohit & Kohli
Karthik emphasized that while nerves and pressure can get to many players, Rohit and Kohli thrive in high-stakes encounters.
“They just know what it takes to do well in big matches. In the lead-up to a game, there are so many thoughts going on. But the way they channel those thoughts and use that energy on the field is what makes them special. Come the big game, these guys stand up,” Karthik remarked.
The numbers back his statement:
✅ Virat Kohli – 218 runs in 5 matches, including a stunning 100 in the semi-final and 84 under pressure.
✅ Rohit Sharma – Quiet in the league stage but delivered when it counted, smashing a match-winning 76 in the final against New Zealand.
Rohit Sharma Shuts Down Retirement Rumors in Style
Amid growing speculation about his future, Rohit shut down retirement talks with his characteristic humor. During the post-match press conference, he playfully responded to a question about retirement, saying:
“I am not retiring.”
Karthik backed Rohit’s stance and admired the way he handled the situation.
“That pretty much sums up Rohit Sharma as a person. Very humorous about it but at the same time sending the message across: ‘Don’t be in a hurry to ask for my retirement. I’ll do it when I feel so,’” he said.
“One of the Greatest Captains” – Karthik on Rohit’s Legacy
With back-to-back ICC trophies under his leadership, Rohit Sharma has now etched his name alongside MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev.
“Rohit Sharma is one of the greatest, no doubt. He’s leaving a serious legacy. Each of them marked a generational change and a mindset shift,” Karthik said.
Young Guns & India’s Bright Future
While India’s success was largely driven by experienced stars, Karthik also hailed the young talents Yashasvi Jaiswal and Varun Chakaravarthy for their immense potential.
🗣 On Jaiswal: “He is a bonafide opener. When he gets his turn, he’s going to do phenomenally well.”
🗣 On Varun: “His accuracy is his biggest strength, and that will always help him succeed in white-ball cricket.”
Karthik also singled out Shreyas Iyer as India’s “player of the tournament”, highlighting his consistency under pressure.
India’s ICC Dominance Continues
With the Champions Trophy 2025 victory, India has now secured back-to-back ICC titles, sending a strong message to the cricketing world. With legends like Kohli and Rohit leading the charge and young stars ready to shine, India’s cricketing future looks brighter than ever.
👉 Do you think Rohit Sharma should continue leading India? Drop your thoughts below!