‘There’s a Strong Camaraderie Between Us’: Rohit Sharma on His Bond With Virat Kohli

Rohit and Kohli have been among the most influential figures in Indian cricket for nearly two decades. Rohit made his international debut in 2007, with Kohli following in 2008, and their careers have since remained closely intertwined through their years as players and captains.

Speaking to JioStar ahead of India's second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit reflected on the friendship and understanding that has developed between the two over the years.

“Both of us, we’ve almost started playing at the same time. I made my debut in 2007, he made his debut in 2008. And since then, we’ve been trying to give our best for the team,” Rohit said.

He added that their contrasting approaches to the game have never affected their shared commitment to India. According to Rohit, Kohli's attitude towards cricket remains largely unchanged despite the end of his captaincy.

“Methods are different, obviously, but that’s how it should be, every individual is different,” he said.

Rohit also praised Kohli's contribution to Indian cricket and backed him to continue playing with the same intensity and determination.

“For what he has done for the team, for this team, there is no question, there is no asking what has he done. It’s there for everyone to see it,” Rohit said.

“He’ll be the same Kohli that we know of: wants to come, prepare well, go get the runs, win games for Team India,” he added.

The former India and Mumbai Indians captain also revealed that the two continue to exchange feedback about their batting. Their conversations, he said, are not limited to appreciation when things go well but also include discussions about areas where either player can improve.

“Appreciation, appreciation if something good has happened, it has always been there from both sides,” Rohit said.

“At the same time, there has been a lot of discussion about how both of us as individuals can improve our own game. So, sometimes if something is happening with my batting, he comes and mentions it, sometimes I mention it. So that conversation always keeps going,” he added.

Rohit said their relationship has remained unchanged even though they now spend less time together away from cricket. With both players having more time at home compared with their years of constant international travel, their meetings have naturally become less frequent.

“Although yes, now we meet very rarely because his house is quite far from mine. And every month, or every month and a half, an ODI series happens, so because of that it’s less,” Rohit said.

“Otherwise, until a year ago, every 5-7 days we were on tour, so we didn’t get much time at home. Now both of us are spending more time at home, which is always nice,” he added.

Rohit and Kohli's careers have included several years as teammates at the highest level, along with periods in which they led India across different formats. Despite their changing roles, Rohit believes their mutual understanding and willingness to help each other remain intact.

Rohit Sharma's exclusive interview is set to be available on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network on September 30, while the ICC Men's ODI World Cup schedule announcement is scheduled for October 1 on JioHotstar and Star Sports.