New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel thinks Indian batting legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should decide when they retire from ODIs, especially after their Champions Trophy victory. Kohli was awesome during India’s championship run in Dubai, where they beat New Zealand in the final for their third title. The 36-year-old scored 218 runs in five games, averaging 54.50, including a century against Pakistan and a key 84 against Australia in the semi-final.
Plus, Rohit is now the second most winning Indian captain in ICC tournaments. Under him, India won their second ICC title in under nine months, after grabbing the 2024 T20 World Cup against South Africa in Bridgetown.
They’re legends. If you ask me, they get to pick when they’re done playing. They’ve earned the right to keep going as long as they want. Both have amazing records and are incredible players. As a bowler, I always worry when I have to bowl to either of them, Patel told IANS.
About New Zealand’s Champions Trophy performance, the 36-year-old said, India just played better that day. New Zealand played great throughout the whole thing, some really good cricket. The conditions made it rough, but India played great and we lost.
Patel is traveling with New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon on his five-day visit to India at the invite of PM Narendra Modi.
When asked if he will meet PM Modi, the left-arm spinner said it would be great if he got the chance. Not sure yet. We’re just waiting to see what the schedule is, so we’ll see. If it happens, awesome.
I’m pumped about this trip. It’s always cool to be back in India. It’s my home, but I’m here representing New Zealand, so it’s a cool chance. I’m excited, Patel stated.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is kicking off on March 22. Patel said it’s a great stage for New Zealand players to test themselves.
IPL is huge and well-respected all over the world. It’s always exciting to watch. You see top-notch cricket, top players, and it’s set up super well. It’s been great for New Zealand players to come here, challenge themselves, and get noticed worldwide, Patel finished.