“Didn’t do the work in terms of fitness as Virat” - KKR all-rounder’s massive claim on Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement amid IPL 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Moeen Ali admired Rohit Sharma's effectiveness with the bat despite not working on his fitness as much as teammate Virat Kohli. Ali's remarks came days after the legendary Indian batting duo announced their Test retirements ahead of the highly anticipated England tour.

Rohit announced his Test retirement on May 7 through his Instagram handle, and Kohli followed suit a week later. The duo also retired from T20Is at the same time after helping India win the T20 World Cup last year.

Talking about Rohit on the Beard Before Wicket podcast, Ali said (via Hindustan Times):

"Rohit was a more natural player in terms of, like, amazing to watch. Like a proper gift given to him. When I say natural, everything looks a lot smoother. He was a top player. There was a period of time where he was probably the most talented player in the world, naturally. Like probably didn’t do the work in terms of fitness and stuff as Virat but still as effective. Would probably hit the ball further."

Rohit finished his Test career with 4,301 runs in 67 matches at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. Meanwhile, Kohli scored 9,230 runs in his 123 Tests at an average of 46.85 with an incredible 30 centuries.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli endured torrid finishes to their Test careers

The duo struggled for form in Australia at the end of last year [Credit: Getty]

Despite boasting excellent overall numbers, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli struggled at the end of their Test careers. The former scored only 164 runs at an average of under 11 in his final eight Tests with a lone half-century in 15 innings.

Meanwhile, Kohli fared only a little better with an average of 22.47 in his final 10 Tests, including just two 50+ scores in 19 innings.

The pair's struggles played a massive role in India losing back-to-back Test series against New Zealand and Australia by 0-3 and 1-3 margins, respectively. They also missed out on World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification for the first time in tournament history.

Yet, Rohit and Kohli's departure from Tests leaves a big hole for India to fill in their batting lineup for the five-Test series in England, starting June 20.