After a long break from international cricket, Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli returned to the ODI format during the recently concluded three-match series in Australia, which ended on October 25 (Saturday). The series served as a reminder that while their class remains unmatched, consistent match practice will be vital if they aim to play a key role in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Both senior players have now retired from Tests and T20Is, focusing solely on the 50-over format. However, their comeback was far from smooth at the start. Kohli struggled with consecutive ducks in the first two ODIs, while Rohit looked rusty, managing just 8 runs in Perth before scoring a hard-fought 73 off 97 balls in Adelaide.
By the time the final ODI in Sydney arrived, both seemed to have found their rhythm. Rohit produced a captain’s knock of 121 off 125 balls*, while Kohli contributed a fluent 74 off 81 deliveries*. The pair stitched together a dominant 168-run unbeaten partnership, steering India to a comfortable nine-wicket win while chasing 237.
As India looks ahead to the next ODI World Cup, Rohit will be 40 and Kohli 39. The takeaway from this series is clear — if they want to remain sharp and fit, regular domestic cricket will be crucial.
Domestic Fixtures Provide a Window for Rohit and Kohli to Stay Match-Ready
India’s packed schedule offers limited gaps, but there’s still room for domestic participation. After the upcoming three-match home ODI series against South Africa (November 30 – December 6), India will host New Zealand from January 11 to 18. Between these two assignments, the Vijay Hazare Trophy (December 24 – January 18) could give both stars the ideal opportunity to turn out for Mumbai (Rohit) and Delhi (Kohli) and regain valuable match time.
When asked about the prospect of senior players featuring in domestic matches, India’s new ODI captain Shubman Gill said:
“Right now, we haven’t had any discussions. There’s not much gap left for the South Africa series. There’s a bit of a gap between the South Africa and New Zealand series. We will have discussions after the South Africa series, and we will decide on how to keep the players in touch.”
Shubman Gill Praises Rohit and Kohli’s Match-Winning Sydney Partnership
Gill, who has often spoken about idolising Rohit and Kohli, was full of admiration for their partnership in Sydney.
“They’ve been doing this for the past 15 years. To be able to watch them play like this and get the team through unbeaten is really a treat to watch,” he said.
The young skipper added that having the two veterans by his side makes his job easier:
“It is always helpful. Both of them have played a lot in Australia and have won so many matches for the country. Having Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma helps me as a captain. I can ask them anything whenever I have any doubts in the field. It is a big relief that I can always go up to Rohit and Kohli.”
Their performance in Australia reinforced a simple truth — class is permanent, but staying match-ready will be key. With domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy and a busy ODI calendar ahead, both Rohit and Kohli have the perfect platform to maintain their form and fitness on the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup.
