Kevin Pietersen has urged critics to extend respect towards the esteemed Indian batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have faced significant scrutiny in recent months. The two batting legends experienced a challenging red-ball season, struggling to make a notable impact during the Tests in New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Discussions regarding their potential retirement have emerged; however, neither player has made any announcements regarding such a decision and both are expected to participate in the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, followed by the ICC Champions Trophy.

Pietersen characterized the criticism and speculation about retirement as unjust, emphasizing that these players, with their remarkable careers, merit greater respect.

"It is unfair. How can one suggest that individuals who have accumulated as many runs as these players should retire? While it is a topic of discussion, they deserve more respect than that," Pietersen stated, as reported by PTI.

The former England captain noted that he encountered similar challenges during his own career, asserting that a single disappointing tour in Australia does not diminish the status of these two modern-day greats or label them as poor cricketers.

"Having faced the same difficulties in my career, I understand that it happens. Rohit and Virat are not machines; they do not score centuries every time they bat. Perhaps they had one underwhelming tour in Australia. Does that render them bad individuals? No. Does it make them poor cricketers? Absolutely not," he remarked.

Once the cornerstone of India's batting order, Kohli had a difficult series in Australia, accumulating only 190 runs at an average of less than 24. Rohit also struggled to make an impact and was sidelined for the final Test to allow the team to field more in-form players.

‘Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma should be celebrated’

Pietersen emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity of cricket stars.

"It is essential for fans to remember that these athletes are human beings. While they may face criticism during their careers, it is crucial to reflect on the joy they brought to fans over the years. Their impact is not solely measured by statistics or victories; rather, it is about the happiness they instilled in people. As I conclude my career, I often hear from fans about the emotions I evoked while playing," he remarked.

He further expressed that given the immense joy that Kohli and Rohit have provided to their supporters over the last decade, it is vital to honor them at this stage of their careers.

"Virat brings an incredible sense of joy to fans, and Rohit does the same. Therefore, they deserve to be celebrated as they approach the later stages of their careers, whether at 36, 37, or 38. I firmly believe that such players should always be acknowledged," Pietersen stated.

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