 "Indian fans were disappointed as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma got out cheaply on their return to international cricket. Images: Fox Sports")
Virat Kohli fell for an eight-ball duck on his return to international cricket after over seven months, as Rohit Sharma was dismissed cheaply for just eight runs during India’s first ODI against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday (19 October).
The build-up to the match was dominated by Kohli and Rohit’s return to international cricket, but their first outing has proved to be anything but impressive.
The Legendary duo have retired from Tests and T20Is but still harbour the hopes of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The white-ball tour of Australia is where India kick off their preparation for the ODI World Cup, which is still two years away, and the veterans need to do well and stay in contention. Kohli would be 38 by the time the 2027 World Cup comes around, while Rohit would be 40.
However, the duo made a horrific start to the ODI series as both were dismissed early on. Rohit got out after edging a Josh Hazlewood delivery to the second slip on eight off 14 balls, while Kohli was caught at backward point without troubling the scorers.
Indian fans slam Kohli, Rohit after quick dismissals
Indian fans weren’t happy seeing Rohit and Kohli suffer cheap dismissals on their much-anticipated return to international cricket. While a few expressed sadness over the dismissals, some slammed the batters for their performance.
“For those who have taken money to cover them, it’s time to start PR Exercise with old videos & Stats,” a fan wrote on X.
Another fan said: “All Hype go down both VIRAT KOHLI and ROHIT SHARMA Gone.”
Impact Shorts
More ShortsA Kohli fan complained that the lack of match practice went against the start batter at Perth. “This isn’t the Virat Kohli we’re used to seeing.chasing wide ones and playing away from his body early in the innings. Clearly shows the effect of being away from cricket for too long.”
Here are some other reactions:
Even captain Shubman Gill was dismissed for just 10 off 18 balls, highlighting the lack of match practice for the entire team. Reaching Australia only three days ago has not allowed Team India batters to adapt to the conditions.