The highly anticipated return of Indian cricket stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the ODI arena in Perth didn’t quite go according to script. After Australia won the toss and chose to field – marking India’s sixteenth consecutive ODI toss loss, a streak dating back to the CWC 2023 semifinals against New Zealand – the conditions favored the bowlers.
Once play commenced, the Australian pace attack capitalized on the lively Perth pitch. Josh Hazlewood dismissed Rohit with a well-directed hard-length delivery, while Mitchell Starc lured Virat Kohli into chasing a wide one, leading to his first duck in 30 ODI innings on Australian soil.
Young opener Shubman Gill managed to strike a couple of boundaries but eventually fell leg before wicket. Cumulatively, the star trio of Rohit, Kohli, and Gill managed a mere 18 runs, marking their lowest combined total in an ODI where all three participated, surpassing their previous low of 25 against Pakistan in 2023.
Amidst this challenging start, the heavens opened, bringing a pause to the game and an unexpected moment of lightheartedness. During the second rain interruption, cameras captured Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the dressing room, sharing some popcorn.
Initially, the two were engaged in a serious discussion, likely dissecting the pitch conditions and strategizing for a turnaround. However, the mood soon shifted, and they were seen sharing jokes and laughter, enjoying their snack as they watched the rain outside.
This heartwarming exchange served as a poignant reminder that even under the immense pressure of international cricket and the changing dynamics of leadership, a strong bond and sense of camaraderie persist between the seasoned Rohit and the promising young captain, Gill.