NEW DELHI: Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson believes it will be challenging for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to maintain their stellar run in ODI cricket now that they play only one format.

The modern cricket calendar is dominated by T20s, and with India also heavily involved in Test cricket, opportunities for ODIs are limited. Having retired from Tests and T20Is, Rohit and Kohli's first assignment since the Champions Trophy in February-March will be the upcoming three-match series against Australia, starting on October 19.

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Watson pointed out that staying razor-sharp as a one-format player is difficult, citing the example of former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, who struggled to retain his spot in the ODI side shortly after captaining the team.

"For Virat and Rohit, it's going to be a challenge playing just one format of international cricket. Getting their skills sharp again to face the best bowlers will take some adjustment.

"But you can never rule out champions and Virat and Rohit are exactly that. It may take a bit of time for them to find the right preparation, but once they do, they'll be ready to go when they take on Australia," Watson told 'Jio Star'.

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India will take on Australia in a three-match ODI series starting October 19, with the spotlight firmly on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who could be playing their final matches in Australia.

"It might take a little time to find the right preparation rhythm to face the best bowlers in the world. But these two are as good as one-day batters get. It won't take them long to find the right formula and get back to their best; their class and consistency are second to none," said Watson.

India have been unbeaten in the ODI format this year but Watson reckons Australia can end their winning run.

"You can see the brand of cricket they're playing now; it's fearless and expressive, unlocking their full potential. There's no surprise they've been so dominant this year.

"Do I think Australia can break that unbeaten record? Yes, but they'll have to be at their very best because India is playing incredibly well. It's going to be a great series to watch."

(With PTI Inputs)