New Delhi – The One Day International format has seen a marked resurgence in popularity,largely fueled by the dominant performances of Indian batting stars Virat Kohli and Rohit sharma. with both players now focused exclusively on ODIs following their departures from test and T20 international cricket, interest and viewership in the 50-over game have substantially increased. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has called for expanded ODI series and multi-nation tournaments to capitalize on this renewed momentum and maximize the impact of the two star batsmen.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have revitalized One Day International (ODI) cricket with their stellar performances over the past year, proving the 50-over format remains a compelling draw for fans. The dynamic duo’s presence has injected new life into the game, making each appearance a must-watch event as they continue to dominate the sport.
Having retired from Test and T20 International cricket, both Kohli and Sharma now focus exclusively on the ODI format for India, elevating the significance of every match they play together. This concentrated focus has directly benefited 50-over cricket, which had seen its popularity wane in recent years.
“Why not a three-match ODI series: Pathan”
Their impact extends beyond the scoreboard, drawing larger crowds to stadiums and boosting viewership on television and digital platforms. The resurgence of interest in ODI cricket prompted former all-rounder Irfan Pathan to suggest the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and other cricket boards consider expanding the format.
“I have repeatedly said that instead of three ODIs, we should play five. Why not a tri-nation series or a four-nation series? When these two great players play only one format, they should be utilized properly. If there is a new interest in ODI cricket, it is because of these two players,” Pathan told Star Sports.
The influence of Kohli and Sharma isn’t limited to fan engagement; they also lead the charts in performance metrics. Rohit Sharma currently holds the top spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings, with Virat Kohli closely behind in second place. Their consistency and long-term dominance in the format are undeniable, solidifying their status as modern-day greats.
“The most important thing is that both are performing well. The World Cup is still a long way off. Preparation is important, but I also want to see them play as much as possible. They should continue to play for India, and when they are not playing for India, they should play domestic cricket. The more they play, the better they will become,” Pathan added.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have demonstrated that ODI cricket is far from a dying format, injecting a renewed sense of excitement and prestige into the 50-over game. Moving forward, strategic scheduling and larger tournaments will be crucial to sustaining this momentum and ensuring the continued success of ODI cricket in the years to come.
