Rohit Sharma is set to return to action for the first time since stepping down as India’s ODI captain, as the team gears up for the upcoming three-match series against Australia. The veteran opener, who guided India to the Champions Trophy title earlier this year, was replaced by Shubman Gill earlier this month after the BCCI announced the change while unveiling the 15-member squad for the series beginning October 19.Click here to watch the videoChief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed during a press conference that he had personally informed Rohit about the selectors’ decision to end his stint as ODI skipper and appoint Gill in his place.
On Thursday, Rohit was spotted in a serious discussion with head coach Gautam Gambhir during an intense training session in Perth. The session also saw him batting alongside Virat Kohli in the nets, a moment captured and shared on X by Star Sports. The two stalwarts batted for nearly half an hour side by side, marking a nostalgic sight for fans.India’s squad travelled to Perth in two groups over Wednesday and Thursday ahead of the white-ball tour, which features three ODIs and five T20Is starting on October 29.Both Kohli and Rohit had earlier retired from Test cricket and ended their T20I careers after leading India to the World Cup title in Barbados last year. With both players in the twilight of their careers, this tour could potentially mark their final appearance in Australia. Their future participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup remains uncertain, hinging on their fitness and form in the coming years.New captain Shubman Gill, however, has expressed full faith in the experienced duo, acknowledging their immense value to the side. The team is scheduled for additional training sessions on Friday and Saturday as preparations continue in full swing.
