NEW DELHI: After a Test series against South Africa that raised more concerns than clarity for India, the spotlight now turns to white-ball cricket, with a three-match ODI series followed by five T20Is. While the immediate focus for the team management is firmly on the shortest format, the fans in Ranchi ensured that the opening ODI still had the feel of a marquee clash.
The biggest reason? The long-awaited return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
With both icons having retired from Tests and T20Is, their appearances have become increasingly rare, making every outing a moment to cherish for fans. But beyond the nostalgia and excitement, the stakes are high.
The 2027 ODI World Cup may be distant, but competition for spots is already intensifying, and both Rohit and Kohli know they must produce strong performances to convince the selectors of their sustained relevance in the format.
India pacer Arshdeep Singh couldn't hide his excitement about reuniting with the two stalwarts in the dressing room. Speaking on JioStar, the left-arm quick said their intensity and rhythm in training made it clear that something special might be on the horizon.
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"Rohit bhai and Virat bhai won't need words. Their batting will do the talking," Arshdeep said. "Watching them time the ball the way they did in training was special. As a bowler, I wouldn’t want to bowl to them right now. As a teammate, I'm hoping to see plenty of runs from both of them in the first ODI."
Arshdeep also highlighted the importance of adjusting swiftly to different conditions, stressing that his core objective on the field remains the same. "Wherever we play, the goal is to adjust, read the surface and the batters, and pick the right variations. Home or away, my job is to take wickets for the team."
