Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are pulling out all the stops in their preparations for the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against England, set to kick off in Nagpur. A video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) showcased the duo in fine form during a practice session, dazzling fans with an array of breathtaking strokes ahead of the first match.
Back to Their Best?
The 2024-25 Test season was a forgettable chapter for both batters, as neither managed to find their rhythm in the longest format. Rohit Sharma endured a particularly challenging run, amassing just 164 runs across eight Tests at an average of 10.93, with only one half-century to his name. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli fared slightly better but still struggled, scoring 382 runs in 10 Tests at an average of 22.87, including one century and a fifty.
Their recent performances in domestic cricket also left much to be desired. Rohit fell cheaply for 3 and 28 in a Ranji Trophy clash against Jammu and Kashmir, while Kohli’s return to first-class cricket after 12 years ended on a disappointing note, managing only six runs against Railways.
A Glimmer of Hope in the Nets
However, if their latest net session is anything to go by, Indian fans have reason to be optimistic. The BCCI footage captured Rohit and Kohli taking on fast bowlers with confidence, showcasing their trademark flair. Rohit was seen dispatching deliveries with his elegant strokeplay, while Kohli displayed his trademark aggression, stepping out to smash sixes and playing exquisite reverse-sweeps.
The duo’s preparation hints at a resurgence in form, which will be crucial not only for the ODI series against England but also for India’s campaign in the upcoming Champions Trophy. As two of India’s most dependable batsmen, their performances will play a pivotal role in determining the team’s success.
What to Expect in the Series
With the stage set for the first ODI, all eyes will be on Rohit and Kohli to deliver when it matters most. Both players have proven time and again that they thrive under pressure, and their ability to adapt to different formats remains unmatched. If their net session is any indication, fans can expect fireworks from the “Ro-Ko” duo as they aim to silence critics and lead India to victory.
As the countdown to the series begins, the Indian team will hope that this practice session translates into match-winning performances on the field. For now, Rohit and Kohli’s display in the nets has ignited hopes of a strong start to the ODI series against England.