The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 concluded with India securing a remarkable victory, marking their third title in this prestigious tournament. Throughout the event, there was considerable speculation regarding whether this would be the final appearance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. As Ravindra Jadeja delivered the winning runs in the final match, fans recalled the T20 World Cup 2024, where both players had announced their retirement from the shortest format of the game.

However, Rohit and Kohli quickly put these rumors to rest, expressing their commitment to continue their international cricket careers for the foreseeable future. Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson supported this view, stating that the outstanding form of the veteran players validates their decision to persist.

In an interview with the Hindustan Times, Watson emphasized how both Rohit and Kohli enhanced their performances during the Champions Trophy, showcasing their enduring talent for all to see.

"In my view, these players are still performing exceptionally well. Virat's batting throughout the tournament was impressive; he remains the finest chaser in ODI cricket history. His performance was remarkable. Similarly, Rohit delivered an outstanding innings against the New Zealand bowling attack in the final," Watson remarked.

"He played at a level that I have rarely seen, particularly during the Champions Trophy. Therefore, if they continue to perform at such a high standard and maintain their passion and drive to represent India, they will undoubtedly keep the younger players at bay, as their skills are unparalleled," he concluded.

Watson further highlighted that the exceptional performances of Kohli and Rohit in the 50-over format establish a significant standard, urging younger players to elevate their game and assertively vie for a position in India's strong lineup.

“They excel under pressure, as demonstrated during the Champions Trophy. It was essentially a knockout tournament, and they delivered outstanding performances, particularly when the team required it most," Watson remarked.

"Therefore, if those players wish to continue their careers, the emerging talents must truly make their presence felt. The only way to achieve this is by scoring an impressive number of runs and executing remarkable feats to even have a chance of breaking into the Indian team," he continued.

As Rohit and Kohli maintain their remarkable form, the 2025 Champions Trophy also signified the conclusion of an era for Australian cricket, with Steve Smith announcing his retirement from One Day Internationals. Cricket Australia confirmed this news following the team's semi-final loss to India, yet Watson believes Smith still possesses the capability to participate in the 2027 World Cup in South Africa. He expressed hope that this decision might prolong Smith’s distinguished Test career.

"Oh, Steve Smith is undoubtedly still capable of playing until the 2027 World Cup. His batting, as we witnessed during the Australian summer, remains exceptional. It is a pleasure to observe, as he is an extraordinary cricketer. Ultimately, it is his decision. He believes this is the right choice for him at this moment," Watson stated.

"Thus, I wish him the best. He has earned the right to make decisions regarding his career based on his contributions to Australian cricket. There is no doubt that his absence will leave a significant void. Heading into the 2027 ODI World Cup, his absence will be felt greatly."

Watson in remarkable form in International Masters League

Watson has been thoroughly enjoying his time in the International Masters League (IML). Observing the right-handed batsman, it is astonishing to realize how much time has elapsed since his retirement from international cricket; his talent and charisma remain as vibrant as ever.

At the age of 43, Watson is in exceptional form, having scored three centuries in just four matches. His remarkable achievements include centuries against the West Indies, India, and South Africa, with his unbeaten 122 against the Proteas standing out as the highlight of his performances thus far.

"I have been aware of the need to prepare as thoroughly as possible for this tournament. In the weeks leading up to the event, I practiced batting a couple of times each week for about five weeks. I understood that I needed to refine my skills to perform at my best, considering the caliber of players involved. The great aspect was that all the effort I put in during practice allowed me to excel in the matches," Watson remarked.

"The pitch at DY Patil was particularly conducive to launching my tournament, making it an incredible surface. It was beneficial to gain confidence from that initial game," he continued.

The current tournament showcases some of the most prominent figures in the sport. With legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, and Jacques Kallis participating, Watson expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to compete alongside them once more.

"I believe everyone shares this sentiment. It is a tremendous honor to be part of this tournament, the IML, and to play against some of my childhood heroes. When I was representing Australia or playing in the IPL against Sachin, or facing Brian Lara while playing for Australia, I did not fully appreciate their greatness due to the competitive nature of those encounters," Watson explained.

"At that time, my focus was primarily on strategizing to dismiss them. However, now, at this stage of my life and considering where those players are in their careers, I can genuinely appreciate their contributions to the game."

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