Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two iconic figures in Indian cricket, are back in action! But here's where it gets intriguing: their return isn't without a twist.
In a highly anticipated comeback, Kohli and Rohit graced the nets at Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, ahead of India's limited-overs tour. The duo, who haven't represented India since the Champions Trophy, were in high spirits, engaging with fans and signing autographs. Kohli, in particular, seemed to be in his element, with the stadium being one of his favorites.
The training session, however, was more than just a warm-up. Kohli, known for his intense focus, went through catching drills with remarkable dedication on the same turf where he scored his last Test century. He then faced the bowlers in the nets, showcasing his fluency and skill. But it wasn't all smooth sailing; there were moments of discomfort, especially against the back-of-a-length deliveries.
And this is the part most people miss: Rohit, Kohli's long-time teammate, was also present, but his performance was a stark contrast. Having not played since the IPL, Rohit's timing and footwork appeared rusty. While Kohli's bat made sweet contact with the ball, Rohit struggled to find his rhythm.
As the session progressed, Rohit began to find his groove, hitting some powerful shots. Meanwhile, KL Rahul, the only member of India's Test team against the West Indies to train, had a brief net session. The atmosphere was relaxed, a far cry from the intense Test preparations in Perth last year.
Kohli's presence has undoubtedly added a layer of excitement to the upcoming three-match ODI series, with ticket sales soaring. This series marks the beginning of a significant Australian summer, featuring the highly anticipated Ashes. Cricket in Perth often takes a backseat to the Australian Football League, but this season promises to be different, thanks to the presence of India and England.
Earlier in the day, Australia's training session lacked the same buzz, with quick Mitchell Starc being a standout performer. The atmosphere was laid-back, with plenty of golf-related banter among the Australian players. Former Test quick Jhye Richardson, recovering from shoulder surgery, was a welcome sight, although he's not yet ready for a full return.
As the cricket world eagerly awaits the main training sessions on Friday, one can't help but wonder: will Rohit and Kohli's form continue to contrast, or will Rohit find his stride alongside Kohli's brilliance? The stage is set for a captivating series, and the cricket community is abuzz with anticipation.
