The stage was set for redemption, and Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli delivered in style in the third ODI of India’s tour of Australia. After a rough start to the series, the duo combined to produce a masterclass of experience, timing and mutual understanding — a reminder that even in twilight years they still have plenty to give.
The build-up
Both Rohit and Kohli returned to the Indian ODI side for this series after focusing on other formats (they’ve retired from Tests and T20Is). Expectations were high; scrutiny was heavy. The first two matches did not go so well for them. As coach Ravi Shastri said:
“When you come back from a long lay-off, you are obviously going to be rusty… it’s about how much you’re enjoying the sport and how much hunger is left in you to play the game.”
The fact Australia had already sealed the series (winning the first two ODIs) added pressure for India — this third match was more about pride and setting the tone for what’s ahead.
The match – turning the ship around
Australia batted first and posted 236 before being bowled out in 46.4 overs.
In response, India chased it down in 38.3 overs with 9 wickets in hand. In that chase the Rohit-Kohli partnership stole the show: an unbeaten 168-run stand for the second wicket.
- Rohit Sharma: 121 not out off 125 balls (13 fours, 3 sixes) – his 33rd ODI century.
- Virat Kohli: 74 not out off 81 balls – his return to form after two ducks in the previous matches.
Kohli, afterwards, gave insight into their chemistry:
“We always understood the situation well… when Rohit is batting it’s pretty easy to kind of rotate the strike, we know each other’s game pretty well.”
Why this matters
- Legacy reaffirmed: For players who have carried the Indian white-ball set-up for years, this innings reminded everyone they’re far from done.
- Partnership benchmarks: The 168-run stand saw Rohit & Kohli level with the great duo of Sachin Tendulkar & Sourav Ganguly for most 150+ partnerships in ODIs.
- Resilience on show: After two failures, Kohli bounced back. That speaks to mindset, and the hunger to contribute despite the career mileage.
- Message to the team: The win, though it didn’t change the series outcome, sent a strong message to younger players and fans — experience still counts, and form can return when it matters.
What next & the broader picture
While the win was a morale booster, the series was already lost — Australia took it 2–1. Nevertheless, this performance gives the Indian team momentum and confidence. As noted, leaders at board level have clarified that this tour isn’t a send-off for Rohit or Kohli.
The duo will likely play a key role in India’s preparations for the upcoming ICC events and help nurture the next generation of players.
Key takeaways
- Experience + partnership = match-winning: The old guard showed how partnerships built over years pay dividends.
- Never count them out: Rohit’s and Kohli’s return to form under pressure shows they still have the hunger.
- A performance for the fans: The cheer for Kohli’s return, the ovation for Rohit’s ton, it was an emotional ride for supporters.
Final thoughts
In a series where India could have capitulated, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli gave their fans a moment to savour. The 168-run stand was not just about runs on the board, it was about resilience, legacy and the joy of competing at the highest level. Whether this was their last major contribution on Australian soil remains to be seen, but they left no doubt — when the stage is set, they still know how to perform.
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