As Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli approach the twilight of their illustrious careers, a thought-provoking question arises: what will happen to their devoted social media fanbase once they retire? Known as two of the most iconic figures in the sport, Rohit and Kohli have captivated millions, not just on the field but also through their significant online presence. However, with their recent form raising eyebrows, fans and experts alike are beginning to reflect on their legacies and the impact of their eventual departure from the game.
Where Do Rohit and Kohli Stand in Their Careers?
In 2024, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have faced challenges with their form. Rohit has managed an average of 26 across 13 Test matches this year, while Kohli has averaged 25 in 9 Tests. Neither player features in T20 Internationals anymore, and their appearances in One-Day Internationals are now limited primarily to ICC and ACC tournaments. These statistics, combined with their age and wear-and-tear from years of cricket, have naturally led to speculation about the future of their cricketing careers.
Both players are undoubtedly aware of the questions surrounding their form. Given their immense skill and determination, they might find answers to these challenges on the field. But can their fans—particularly those who have grown up idolizing them—come to terms with the possibility of their retirement?
The Social Media Generation of Cricket Fans
The love and admiration for cricket legends are not new to India. Past icons like Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, and MS Dhoni received widespread adoration. However, the phenomenon surrounding Rohit and Kohli is unique because they are the first Indian cricket superstars of the social media era.
Social media platforms have played a crucial role in amplifying their reach and influence, turning casual fans into die-hard supporters. While MS Dhoni also enjoyed significant online popularity, his career straddled the transition between the pre-social media and social media-driven eras. In contrast, Kohli and Rohit came into prominence when platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram were becoming mainstream, making them household names in the digital space.
The Volatile Nature of Social Media Fandom
Social media has created a new breed of cricket fans—one that is more connected but also far more volatile. While fans of the past expressed their loyalty through letters or in-person support, today’s followers swing between adoration and criticism at lightning speed. This unpredictability raises questions about how Kohli and Rohit’s fans will cope when their heroes decide to hang up their boots.
Joy Bhattacharjya, a former team director of Kolkata Knight Riders, recently raised this issue on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“The Sachin fan was a different fan from a different era. But what happens to the Virat & Rohit fanatics when they finally end their long & illustrious careers? I ask because this is the 1st social media-driven generation which will see their heroes retire.”
This poignant observation drew varied reactions from fans, sparking a lively debate about the evolution of fandom in cricket’s digital age.
Looking Back While Moving Forward
As India faces challenging matches in the ongoing Test series, such as their battle against Australia in Brisbane, the focus on the field remains intense. Ravindra Jadeja’s lower-order heroics and KL Rahul’s solid knock have been a reminder of the talent that continues to emerge in Indian cricket. However, the thought of a post-Rohit and post-Kohli era lingers in the background.
For now, Indian cricket fans can only cherish the remaining moments of their superstars’ careers while pondering how they will adapt to life without them in the future. Only time will tell whether the social media generation can navigate this transition as gracefully as fans of the past.
