India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma has made his intentions loud and clear as he gears up for a long-awaited return to international cricket. With a crucial three-match series against Australia starting October 19 at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Rohit has already hit the nets in Mumbai, sending a strong message to head coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
Rohit Preparing for His First Game in 8 Months
The 38-year-old hasn’t played international cricket for nearly eight months. After retiring from Tests earlier this year and stepping away from T20Is after the 2024 World Cup in Barbados, his ODI future has been under constant speculation.
Rohit, however, has been vocal about his commitment to the 50-over format. After India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, he insisted he is “going nowhere” from ODIs. Still, whispers continue around whether the Australia tour could be his final ODI series.
Retirement Talk and the 2027 World Cup
A recent Dainik Jagran report suggested that both Rohit and Virat Kohli might be playing their last ODI series in Australia. The same report indicated that the selectors could ask them to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy if they wish to remain in contention for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
Given India’s heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 World Cup final, Rohit is desperate for one more chance to lift the ICC’s biggest trophy before calling time on his career.
Controlling What He Can
While the ultimate call lies with Gambhir and Agarkar, Rohit is focusing on what’s in his control. Training alongside close friend Abhishek Nayar in Mumbai, the India skipper shared a video on Instagram of his net session, declaring: “I am here again. It feels really good.”
His post carried the simple caption: “That felt good.” A clear sign that he’s leaving no stone unturned in preparing for his comeback.
Will Rohit Play India A Games?
Speculation is also growing about whether Rohit will warm up by featuring in the India A vs Australia A series starting September 30 in Kanpur. The All India Men’s Senior Selection Committee is yet to announce the India A squad, and fans are waiting to see if both Rohit and Virat make a surprise appearance.
Rohit and Virat: The Last Chapter?
Earlier this year, both Rohit and Kohli shocked fans by announcing their retirement from Tests before the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England. While they endured tough series against New Zealand and Australia, their ODI legacy remains strong.
Both were instrumental in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory, reminding the world of their class. But with age, fitness, and selectors’ plans in play, the coming months will decide whether this series against Australia marks the beginning of the end for India’s two modern greats.
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