India’s captain Shubman Gill, after the white-ball series with Australia, emphasised the necessity of match rhythm for the two seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, since their current playing style is restricted to white-ball cricket only. The triumphant Indian team, consisting of these two star players, wrapped up the recently-concluded ODI series with an impressive win over Australia by nine wickets. Kohli played a superb knock of 74 not out, while the skipper Rohit scored 121 not out to make it easy for India to win the last match of the series.
Gill said that the conclusion of the ODI series against South Africa on December 6 will be the time to decide how to keep the two icons in peak condition. A subsequent seven-week gap before the New Zealand ODI series, beginning January 11, 2026, game time for senior batters is a major factor.
“The next series for Rohit and Kohli is against South Africa on November 30, December 3, and 6, followed by ODIs against New Zealand starting January 11. After December 24, the Vijay Hazare Trophy will begin, and both are expected to play a few games for their respective domestic teams,” Gill explained.
For the young captain, witnessing 38-year-old Rohit and 36-year-old Kohli finish a high-pressure chase was a delight. “They’ve been winning games for the past 15 years. Watching them bat like that and guide the team through unbeaten is really a treat,” Gill said, praising their consistency and skill.
He further emphasized the experience of watching the duo in action: “Just hearing the ball middle the bat is something special. It reminds you how good they are.” Gill also applauded their approach in team strategy: “We often discuss that if someone is set, they should finish the game. They walked the talk, and it’s a great bonus for us.”
Rohit and Kohli’s enduring class continues to inspire the younger generation, as they remain integral to India’s white-ball plans heading into the upcoming ODI series.
