India’s recent tour of Australia concluded on a high note for fans, largely thanks to stunning individual performances from two of cricket’s biggest names: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo powered India to a dominant nine-wicket victory in the third and final One Day International at the Sydney Cricket Ground, leaving a lasting impression despite the series loss.
In that memorable match, after Australia was bowled out for 236 runs, with pacer Harshit Rana taking an impressive 4 for 39, Rohit Sharma led the charge. He scored a magnificent unbeaten 121 runs off 125 balls. His innings was anchored by a strong 69-run opening partnership with Shubman Gill (24), followed by an unbroken 168-run stand alongside Virat Kohli, who contributed a composed 74 not out off 81 deliveries. India effortlessly chased down the target, reaching 237 for 1 in just 38.3 overs, securing a consolation win.
Despite this stellar display, discussions have been rife about the future of these seasoned cricketers in the 50-over format. With this series likely marking their final tour Down Under, many are wondering if they will continue to feature in India’s ODI plans, especially concerning the 2027 ODI World Cup. While an official confirmation regarding their participation in the next World Cup is still awaited, fans won’t have to wait too long to see them back in action.
It’s important to note that both Rohit and Kohli have already stepped away from T20Is and Tests, and thus will not be part of the upcoming T20 leg of the Australia tour, which begins on October 29. Similarly, they will also sit out the subsequent two-match Test series against South Africa, scheduled to wrap up on November 26.
The real excitement for cricket enthusiasts is focused on their return to India’s ODI squad. Both Rohit and Kohli are set to play in the much-anticipated three-match ODI series against South Africa, hosted on home soil. This series will take place from November 30 to December 6, with matches slated for Ranchi, Raipur, and Vishakhapatnam. This will be a significant moment, marking their first appearance in ODIs in India since February 2025, when they last played against England.
Their enduring class and recent powerful performance in Sydney have left fans buzzing with anticipation, eagerly awaiting their return to the home crowd in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa.