Former India captain Rohit Sharma has spoken about his long-standing relationship with Virat Kohli, saying the two have shared a strong bond since the early part of their international careers.

Rohit said their friendship and cricketing understanding began during India’s Australia tour and has continued to grow over the years. He also revealed that the two often discuss each other’s batting and look for ways to improve their game.

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‘People Want Masala, So There You Go’

Speaking to JioStar ahead of India’s second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit recalled how his equation with Kohli started.

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He added that the two sometimes laugh when their bond is discussed on television.

Rohit made his international debut in 2007, while Kohli entered international cricket a year later in 2008. The two have since spent almost two decades playing alongside each other for India.

‘There’s A Strong Camaraderie’

Rohit said their similar journey in international cricket has helped them understand each other’s challenges.

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Rohit Says Kohli Has Not Changed

The former captain also praised Kohli’s approach to cricket, saying the batter’s mindset has remained largely the same despite the changes in their roles.

According to Rohit, Kohli has always focused on preparing properly, scoring runs and helping India win matches.

He also backed Kohli to continue playing with the same intensity in the coming years.

They Still Discuss Their Batting

Rohit revealed that the two have also helped each other improve as batters.

He said they regularly appreciate each other’s performances and are comfortable pointing out areas where the other can improve.

Rohit also praised Kohli’s contribution after taking over as India’s Test captain, particularly the way he helped build a strong Test team.

Why They Meet Less Often Now

The two former India captains have not been meeting as frequently as they did earlier. Rohit explained that both now spend more time at home, while their homes are also located quite far from each other.

He recalled that things were different when they were constantly travelling with the Indian team.

Kohli Stars In India’s West Indies Win

Rohit’s comments came shortly after Kohli produced a sensational performance in the first ODI against the West Indies.

Chasing 296, Kohli smashed an unbeaten 139 off 88 balls, hitting 10 fours and nine sixes. His knock helped India chase down the target comfortably and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The innings also saw Kohli cross 15,000 ODI runs and register his 86th international century. His nine sixes were also his most in a single ODI innings.

India will face the West Indies in the second ODI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on September 30.