“I think it’s very dangerous just to write off players like Virat and Rohit because of their age”, says Joe Root ahead of World Cup 2023.

England batter Joe Root recently emphasized that the legendary Indian batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should not be underestimated due to their age. Both Kohli and Rohit continue to showcase their exceptional skills, and their outstanding performances in the Asia Cup 2023 are a testament to their enduring prowess.

Rohit Sharma, in particular, has been in scintillating form, scoring three consecutive half-centuries in the tournament. His latest fifty came on a challenging pitch in Colombo, where he displayed his ability to adapt to difficult conditions. This remarkable consistency has solidified Rohit’s reputation as one of the premier batters in contemporary cricket.

On the other hand, Virat Kohli, often hailed as one of the greatest batters in the history of the game, added another feather to his cap during the crucial Super Four clash against Pakistan. Kohli notched his 47th ODI century, reaffirming his unmatched ability to deliver under pressure and on the big stage.

Joe Root, drawing inspiration from cricketing legends like Chris Gayle and James Anderson, stressed that age should not be a limiting factor when assessing a player’s potential for success. He highlighted how Chris Gayle, despite being on the mature side of his career, continues to dazzle with his explosive batting performances. Similarly, James Anderson, as an aging fast bowler, has maintained his effectiveness and remains a formidable force in the world of cricket.

In an interview with the Times of India, Joe Root’s comments shed light on the importance of recognizing the enduring talent and capabilities of seasoned cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Joe Root said “I think it’s very dangerous just to write off players like Virat and Rohit because of their age. Look at how long Chris Gayle, for example, played T20 cricket. Some of the best players in the world have gone longer, especially in T20 cricket, and have been wonderful with their performances. As long as you’re fit, you go on and play.”

“Jimmy Anderson is a perfect example you look at. He is over 40, he’s still performing exceptionally well. We’re very fortunate that we’ve not lost out on that because we think he’s too old. He’s still playing and he’s still leading our attack. And we’re using all that experience and skill to our advantage. We’re seeing him as a talent and ability and a wonderful player on his own,” Root added more.