NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli’s love affair with Australia is no secret, and his return to the Indian jersey adds extra intrigue to the first ODI of the three-match series starting Sunday at Optus Stadium, Perth. The series also marks the comeback of Rohit Sharma, as both Indian stalwarts will be seen in action for the first time since lifting the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year.After completing a practice session on Saturday, Kohli took time to interact with fans, signing autographs and clicking pictures with a group of eager supporters. During the session, a few Australian fans were reportedly commenting and laughing at him. Without uttering a word, Kohli’s piercing stare silenced them, displaying the intensity that has defined his career.
Kohli’s childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, said the star batter has nothing left to prove in international cricket, noting his exceptional record and contribution to Indian cricket. “Virat doesn’t have to prove anything, he has achieved everything, the way he has played, the way he has won the matches for the country, everyone knows his contribution. He is well prepared, and whenever he is well prepared, the results are always good, and I have full faith that he will do well as usual,” Sharma said.This marks Kohli’s first outing in the Indian jersey since March 9, when India lifted the Champions Trophy. Watch the video hereHe had been expected to return to the Test format for India’s tour of England for the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, but instead chose to retire from Tests, ending a remarkable 14-year-long journey.Debates continue over how Kohli will handle Australia’s fast-paced pitches and whether this three-match ODI series might be his last appearance Down Under. While he has confirmed his intention to feature in the 2027 World Cup, speculation persists about what the near future holds.Sharma also praised both Kohli and Rohit Sharma, saying their contributions to Indian cricket are already well-established. “I would like to say that both of them are great players, and they have nothing left to prove, because the whole of India knows their contribution to Indian cricket, so if they have to prove themselves at this stage, then it will be a very funny thing,” he added.
