Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been spotted undergoing rigorous training sessions in Ranchi, gearing up for India’s upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. The star batsmen were observed putting in serious effort in the nets, signaling their readiness for the 50-over format. The training camp also provided an opportunity for rising stars Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad to train alongside the seniors, reflecting India’s strategic outlook post the Test series defeat to the Proteas. This ODI series marks the much-awaited international comeback for both Kohli and Rohit, who were rested from the Test matches.
Their last ODI appearance for the Men in Blue was during the series in Australia, where India faced a 1-2 loss. Despite the initial challenges on that tour, Kohli and Rohit proved their mettle by stitching a vital match-winning partnership in the final ODI, securing a consolation victory. As they rejoin the squad under stand-in captain KL Rahul, their combined experience and leadership are expected to stabilize India’s ODI batting lineup ahead of the series opener on November 30.
India aims to bounce back strongly after a disappointing home Test series whitewash. The return of Rohit and Kohli is a significant morale and performance booster, crucial for India’s long-term planning and strategy towards the 2027 ODI World Cup. The series is set to begin on November 30 in Ranchi, with the subsequent matches taking place on December 3 in Raipur and December 6 in Visakhapatnam.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain pivotal to India’s ODI blueprint. Kohli, an undisputed legend, has amassed 14,255 runs in 305 ODI matches, standing as the second-highest run-scorer in the format and holding the record for the most ODI centuries (51). He is also recognized as the fastest batter to reach numerous milestones, including 8,000 to 14,000 ODI runs. Rohit Sharma enters this series in exceptional form, having recently reclaimed the number one position in the ICC ODI batting rankings. His powerful opening partnership provides India with significant attacking impetus as the team builds towards future major ICC events.