Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli's iconic partnership (Source: @Enchante__18/x.com)
In the history of Indian cricket, few names shine as brightly as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Beyond being mere players, they have transcended into icons, crafting legacies that inspire generations. Their exploits in ODIs have not just won matches, they’ve created moments that linger in memory
As their unreal performances always captivated the format, fans witnessed some unforgettable moments on the field. Beyond individual brilliance, it’s their record-breaking partnerships that truly stand out, epic collaborations on the field that not only won matches but also etched their names into cricketing history.
In 2018, the cricket world witnessed an iconic partnership between Rohit-Kohli that set the benchmark high as the next generation superstars are still chasing the iconic feat. Let’s rewind to that unforgettable day when their sheer brilliance left the world completely stunned.
West Indies stun with a mammoth total
In a five-match ODI series, Team India faced West Indies in the first match in Guwahati. While batting first, the Caribbean giants showcased excellence. As the Indian bowlers secured some early blood, the West Indies side made a fierce comeback, depending on Shimron Hetmyer’s outstanding century.
Opening the innings, Kieran Powell smashed a thrilling half-century and played a knock of 51 runs in 39 balls. Adding to Shai Hope’s crucial 32 runs, Shimron Hetmyer crafted an outstanding century. In just 78 runs, he played a blistering knock of 106 runs with six boundaries and six over-boundaries. With their combined efforts, the Caribbean side put on a total of 322 runs.
.jpg)
RO-KO's iconic partnership turns the tide against West Indies
Chasing the massive total was not an easy task, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli proved grit, determination, and endless try to reach the glory can turn the tide. Coming to open the innings with Rohit Sharma departed after scoring just four runs. But as Kohli joined forces with the Hitman, the moment shifted.
Dominating over the Caribbean bowlers, the RO-KO duo proved to be heavy on them. After crossing the half-century mark, Virat Kohli smashed his 36th ODI ton, and Hitman secured his 20th one. As the West Indies bowlers were scratching their heads to stop the destruction, the duo was not even taking a name of stopping their brilliance.
In that dominating display, the duo completed their 15th-century partnership and the fifth 200+-run partnership in the format. After endless tries, Devendra Bishoo removed Kohli on 140 runs in 107 balls.
Yet Rohit remained unshaken, anchoring the innings with remarkable composure. His unbeaten 152 off 117 balls steered India to a commanding eight-wicket win. Their breathtaking 246-run partnership wasn’t just a match-winning effort; it became a landmark chapter in the history of ODI cricket.
Will there be another chapter in the RO-KO partnership?
After stepping away from the Test and T20I format, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are only to feature in the ODIs. Ending an ocean of speculation, they are back in the ODI format. With Shubman Gill taking over as India’s new ODI skipper, questions loom large over Rohit’s future leading up to the 2027 World Cup. Meanwhile, Kohli’s ODI journey too stands at a crossroads, as whispers of impending retirements grow louder.
But putting all those ifs and buts aside, Team India is set to face Australia in a three-match ODI series, and they are set to be back on the blue jersey after long time. As Rohit and Kohli return to their favorite format after a long break, anticipation is soaring. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if the legends can script yet another memorable chapter in their storied partnership.
