Preparations are in full swing for India’s upcoming ODI series against South Africa, with star batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma seen putting in a dedicated shift at the nets in Ranchi. Their intense training sessions underscore the importance of the three-match series, marking their return to the 50-over format after a period of rest. The training camp also featured promising young players like Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad, indicating a strategic focus on future talent following the team’s Test series loss to the Proteas. This ODI campaign is particularly significant as it signifies the much-anticipated comeback of Kohli and Rohit to international cricket.
The duo’s last ODI outing for India was during the series in Australia, where the team experienced a 1-2 defeat. Nevertheless, Kohli and Rohit showcased their enduring class by securing a crucial match-winning partnership in the final ODI, clinching a consolation victory. With their return to the squad, led by interim captain KL Rahul, their experience and stability are crucial for solidifying India’s batting order ahead of the series opener on November 30.
India faces a period of rebuilding and seeks redemption following a rare home Test series whitewash. The resurgence of Rohit and Kohli offers a significant advantage, providing both exceptional performance capabilities and vital leadership as the team maps out its journey towards the 2027 ODI World Cup. The series itinerary includes the first ODI on November 30 in Ranchi, followed by matches on December 3 in Raipur and December 6 in Visakhapatnam.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain cornerstones of India’s ODI strategy. Kohli, widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI batsmen ever, has accumulated 14,255 runs in 305 matches, making him the second-highest scorer in the format and holding the record for most ODI centuries (51). His rapid ascent through various scoring milestones, from 8,000 to 14,000 runs, is unparalleled. Rohit Sharma enters the series in scintillating form, having recently ascended back to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings. His aggressive style and proven track record at the top of the order will be instrumental in generating momentum for India as they prepare for major ICC tournaments.