NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s highly anticipated return to international cricket after an eight-month break ended in disappointment, as both struggled in India’s first ODI against Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Former Australian pacer Glenn McGrath analysed their performances on the Fast Bowling Cartel YouTube channel.
McGrath highlighted that both players struggled mainly because they had not played competitive international cricket for several months. The unfamiliar pace and bounce of the Perth pitch exposed the rust in their timing and footwork, making it difficult for them to perform at their usual standards.
"There was a lot of talk going into the match about the two greats, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They've not had a lot of cricket under their belt. And I think they got found out a little bit on a pitch that has got a little bit more pace and a lot more bounce than what they're used to back in India," McGrath said.
The two Indian stalwarts had not played international cricket since the Champions Trophy 2025 final and found it difficult to adapt to the fast, bouncy conditions despite three practice sessions leading up to the match.
Rohit Sharma managed just 8 runs before being dismissed by a brilliant delivery from Josh Hazlewood. Kohli’s stay at the crease was even shorter, lasting only eight balls before Mitchell Starc claimed his wicket.
The second ODI is scheduled for Thursday in Adelaide, which promises a more batting-friendly surface, offering Kohli, Rohit, and the rest of the Indian team a better opportunity to make an impact.
