Ex-India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has opined that out-of-form seasoned batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma need to focus a lot more on their preparation if they are to tackle their tough international challenges when taken from the stage of their careers. The pair had a hard time making a comeback to international cricket in the first ODI against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, October 19. It was their first game after the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) and both players looked off their game as they managed only 8 and 0 runs respectively after India were put in to bat. Making a rising delivery from Josh Hazlewood, the ball hit Rohit as he fell while Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc after a brief and unproductive stay at the crease.
“They need more game time,” says Ravichandran Ashwin
Both players had limited opportunities to get match practice following their retirements from T20Is and Tests. Although there were reports of possible inclusion in the India ‘A’ series against Australia ‘A’, neither featured in the final squad. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said that if the pair plan to continue until the 2027 ODI World Cup, they must prioritise match readiness.
“For their good, I think they can focus more on preparation before tours, but that also depends on the team management. It’s too early to judge them now, but my only concern is whether they can get more game time,” Ashwin remarked. He further suggested that senior players not regularly involved in international cricket should travel early to acclimatise and prepare better.
Ashwin also highlighted the importance of maintaining rhythm and sharpness beyond fitness. “Virat mentioned he’s at peak fitness, which is great, but hand-eye coordination and reflexes come only with time in the middle. You can’t ignore that aspect,” he added.
The Indian team will hope for stronger performances from Kohli and Rohit when they face Australia in the second ODI at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday, October 23.
