Mohammad Kaif, the former Indian batter, has praised Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for their dedication to cricket and their willingness to assist younger players, even without holding the captain's position. Kaif highlighted their commitment, noting how they consistently offer guidance to budding talents.

Kaif specifically mentioned an instance during the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, where Kohli and Sharma mentored young pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh. According to Kaif, the presence and advice of these senior players helped the youngsters settle their nerves and perform better. Harshit Rana made an impressive start by dismissing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock early in the innings, while Arshdeep Singh contributed by taking the wicket of Aiden Markram.

"Harshit Rana bowled on good lengths. He was bowling short, but here he kept his lengths ahead. He made solid use of the new ball. Rohit and Virat were also giving him advice on the field. This is what I am saying, youngsters will do well under seniors, and this has always been the case with Indian cricket," Kaif stated on his YouTube channel. He further added, "How many times we saw Virat going and talking to Arshdeep and Prasidh.".

Kaif emphasized the importance of having senior players like Kohli and Sharma in the team, as they can share their valuable experience with the younger generation. He believes that this mentorship is crucial for the growth and development of young cricketers in Indian cricket.

Notably, India secured a narrow 17-run victory in the mentioned ODI, with Kohli scoring 135 runs off 120 balls and Kuldeep Yadav taking four wickets.

Rohit Sharma has also expressed that youngsters should learn from Virat Kohli's passion and hunger to perform. Sharma pointed out that Kohli is never satisfied and consistently strives to give his best. He wants every young cricketer to possess the same level of dedication and desire to excel. "Virat Kohli can easily be satisfied like he can take it easy for 2-3 series but he never does that, he will be available every time, he is hungry & passionate – that is what I need to have from the youngsters", the Indian captain said.

Sharma has also said that Kohli has never been to NCA in his entire career. He said that all the younger players should look up to the passion that he has. Sharma also highlighted the importance of staying hungry and passionate, bringing pride to everything, being out there in the sun, playing for the team and getting the job done.

Despite reports of a strained relationship between Gautam Gambhir (India's head coach) and veteran players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, fans have observed a new camaraderie between the two senior players. According to a report in The Dainik Jagran, Gambhir's relationship with Kohli and Sharma is not as ideal as it once was when he took over as head coach. It was reported that the relationship turned sour when both Rohit and Kohli announced their retirement from Test Cricket before India toured England in May.