Goa, July 21 -- Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli amid speculation over their future, saying the team management cannot afford to drop the two batting stalwarts if they wish to continue playing. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin highlighted their remarkable achievements and unmatched fan following as key reasons behind their importance to Indian cricket.

Ashwin's remarks come after Rohit Sharma silenced critics with a brilliant 138-run knock in the third ODI against England at Lord's. The innings came amid reports suggesting the Indian captain was no longer in the selectors' long-term plans and could announce his retirement. However, the BCCI later dismissed those claims.

Accordin...