Rohit Sharma is wasting no time getting back into shape. Just days after returning from a family holiday in the UK, the 38-year-old was spotted at a Mumbai gym, sweating it out alongside former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar. His focus now is on regaining full fitness ahead of the three-match ODI series against Australia from October 19 to 25.
Retirement Rumours Refused to Die
Rohit stunned fans earlier this year when he announced his retirement from Test cricket during IPL 2025, right before the England tour. The news was followed by Virat Kohli stepping away from the longest format, sparking talk that the two icons might soon quit ODIs as well.
A Dainik Jagran report even claimed both could call time on their 50-over careers after the Australia tour. But Rohit’s return to serious training — just two months before the series — suggests he’s not done with the format yet.
Last Seen Lifting the Champions Trophy
The opener’s most recent appearance for India came in the Champions Trophy, where he captained the side to glory with a win over New Zealand in the final. While still officially the ODI skipper, whispers in cricket circles suggest the BCCI may hand the role to Shubman Gill, who recently took over as Test captain.
Bond with Nayar Goes Back Years
Rohit and Nayar share a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. When Rohit was dropped from the 2011 ODI World Cup squad, Nayar became a key mentor, helping him rebuild his game and mindset. That partnership remains strong to this day, with Rohit crediting Nayar earlier this year for helping him bounce back from a slow start in IPL 2025.
Nayar’s Own Coaching Journey
Nayar has been in the news himself. Less than a year after being appointed as India’s assistant coach, he was removed from the role by the BCCI. Shortly after, he was named head coach of UP Warriorz in the WPL, replacing Jon Lewis, and also rejoined the Kolkata Knight Riders camp midway through IPL 2025.
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