Post by : Rameen Ariff

Ranchi, November 29, 2025 – The stage is set for the return of Indian cricket icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket on home soil as India prepares to face South Africa in the first ODI of the three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday. Ahead of the opener, both veterans arrived at the venue early to put in extra practice and sharpen their skills.

In the nets, Kohli displayed his trademark intensity, leaving even young wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant in awe. During a session facing left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, Kohli executed a flawless aerial shot, prompting Pant to cheer from behind the stumps, exclaiming, “Bhai ji, acha ball tha yeh. Tagda maar diya.” The energy and focus of Kohli in the nets highlighted his determination to perform strongly after returning from the recent ODI series in Australia.

Rohit Sharma, meanwhile, also worked hard in the nets and was seen engaging in an in-depth discussion with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who is likely to open the batting in Shubman Gill’s absence due to a neck injury. Both Kohli and Rohit focused on a combination of grounded and aerial shots, aiming to fine-tune their game in preparation for the Proteas.

The return of the senior players is seen as a massive boost for the Indian team. Stand-in captain KL Rahul highlighted their importance, stating that having experienced players like Kohli and Rohit not only strengthens the team’s performance but also enhances confidence in the dressing room. “Their importance at any point is huge. Just having their presence and experience helps out a lot of players in the dressing room and helps out the team. So, we're really happy that they're here,” Rahul said.

Kohli’s recent performances in Australia were a mix of highs and lows. After scoring two ducks in the first two ODIs, he bounced back with an unbeaten 74-run knock in the final match of the series. Rohit, on the other hand, was adjudged Player of the Series with one century and one half-century, proving his continued consistency at the top level.

As India prepares for the first ODI against South Africa, the combination of Kohli’s intensity and Rohit’s experience promises an exciting start to the series. Fans are eagerly awaiting to witness the two stalwarts lead India in a home series that also serves as a platform to set the stage for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

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