Cricket star Rohit Sharma is back in action for the first time since stepping down as India’s ODI captain, as the team prepares for a crucial three-match series against Australia. Earlier this month, the veteran opener, who led India to the Champions Trophy title, was replaced by Shubman Gill after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the 15-member squad for the series, which begins on October 19.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that he had personally communicated the selectors’ decision to Rohit regarding the end of his ODI captaincy and Gill’s appointment.
During an intense training session in Perth, Rohit was seen engaged in a serious discussion with head coach Gautam Gambhir. A moment shared on social media by Star Sports showed Sharma batting alongside Virat Kohli in the nets. This sight, with both stalwarts batting side by side for nearly half an hour, brought a wave of nostalgia for fans.
The Indian squad arrived in Perth in two groups over Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of their white-ball tour, which includes three One Day Internationals and five Twenty20 Internationals, commencing on October 29.
Both Kohli and Rohit had previously retired from Test cricket and concluded their T20I careers after leading India to the World Cup title in Barbados last year. Given that both players are in the later stages of their illustrious careers, this tour could potentially mark their final appearances in Australia.
Their participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup remains a topic of speculation, largely depending on their continued fitness and performance in the coming years.
Despite the changes, new captain Shubman Gill has publicly expressed his complete confidence in the seasoned duo, acknowledging their invaluable contribution to the team. The team is scheduled for further training sessions on Friday and Saturday as their preparations intensify.