It is kind of mandatory to talk about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, when Mumbai Indians take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Throw in a bit of stats, and it becomes a perfect recipe for the fans. That gives a fair idea, as to how dominant the two have been in IPL, over the years. While one has scored 7582 runs in 243 matches for his franchise, the other has mustered 6329 runs in 247 outings. But to end the comparison between the two greats there, would be a folly.
Who’s a Better Opener, Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma
Let’s just dive straight into, how the duo have been as openers in the IPL. Virat, in the 103 innings he has opened in, has scored 3927 runs at an average of 45.66. The strike-rate there is over 136. Interestingly, all his eight tons in the IPL have come as an opener.
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On the other hand, Rohit has rather shocking numbers here. The former Mumbai Indians skipper is way behind what Kohli has managed to achieve. In 92 innings as an opener, Rohit only has 2449 runs to his name, at an average of 28. The strike-rate there dips to 130, and has no tons in that position. That is truly surprising for a player who has done immensely well for the country at the opening position.
Virat & Rohit Both Great, Could be India Openers @T20 World Cup?
While the IPL race is clearly won by Virat, at the international arena, there is hardly any doubt that both are equally good. In 117 T20Is, Virat has amassed 4037 runs at an average of 51, and is the leading run-scorer in the format, Rohit has 3974 runs in 151 matches, at an average of 31. With this staggering record, if the duo can combine together, and open for India at the T20 World Cup, it could totally be a different ball game for the team. One could play the anchor’s role, while the other aggressor.
