‘Cancer Can’t Be Treated with Disprin’: Ex-PAK Star Defends Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Amid Criticism

06 NOV

Criticism of Kohli and Rohit

Both Kohli and Rohit have struggled to make a significant impact in India’s five home Tests this season. Each batter has managed just one half-century during these matches. Against New Zealand, neither managed to cross the triple-digit mark in aggregate runs; Kohli scored 93 across three matches, while Rohit totaled 91.

Their poor form has raised concerns about India’s batting depth, contributing to an unprecedented 0-3 whitewash by New Zealand. This downturn has led to growing calls for the two stalwarts to consider stepping aside, sparking debates about their future in the team.

Basit Ali's Strong Defence

Basit Ali, however, was unequivocal in his support for Kohli and Rohit. Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Ali criticized the harsh treatment of the Indian duo by fans and analysts, using a striking analogy to make his point.

“Cancer cannot be treated with Disprin; you need chemotherapy for that. You people make them zero on one day but forget their past performances,” Ali said, referencing the duo’s long-standing contributions to Indian cricket. He added that just months ago, both players were celebrated for their roles in India’s T20 World Cup triumph and pivotal performances against top teams.

Pointing to Past Achievements

Ali reminded critics of the critical role Kohli and Rohit have played in Indian cricket’s successes. “This is the same Rohit Sharma who scored runs against England in the 2023 ODI World Cup and in the Test series. This is the same Virat Kohli who scored 186 in Ahmedabad. Now when he is not getting runs, you guys are speaking. He has seen such a time before as well,” he stated.

Ali also drew comparisons to Pakistan’s struggles, highlighting how India’s consistent success under Kohli and Rohit is often taken for granted. “You people were winning. Ask me, our team had been losing to America, Ireland, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh,” he said, emphasizing the high standards Indian cricket has maintained.

High Stakes in Australia

Kohli and Rohit will have a chance to silence their critics later this month when India takes on Australia in a five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. With India currently in second place on the World Test Championship (WTC) table, the stakes are high.

A clean sweep of 4-0 or 5-0 against Australia would guarantee India’s spot in the WTC final. However, any other result would leave India’s fate dependent on the outcomes of other matches.

Basit’s Message to Critics

Ali urged fans and analysts to exercise patience with Kohli and Rohit, reminding them of the ebb and flow of form in cricket. His message was clear: instead of writing off legends for temporary struggles, acknowledge their past contributions and support them through difficult times.

The criticism surrounding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma underscores the high expectations placed on them as key figures in Indian cricket. Basit Ali’s strong defense serves as a reminder of their enduring legacy and potential to bounce back. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming, both players will be keen to prove their detractors wrong and lead India to a decisive series victory in Australia.