Shastri reflects on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma`s return to international cricket

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In the ODI series opening match against Australia, Team India suffered a loss by seven wickets at the Optus Stadium in Perth.

It also marked the return of Team India stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket since the Champions Trophy 2025 triumph.

However, the duo endured a poor outing with the bat as both returned to the pavilion on low scores. Facing 14 balls, Rohit scored just eight runs, with the help of a boundary, whereas Virat was dismissed on an eight-ball duck.

Reflecting on their performances, former Team India cricketer Ravi Shastri stated that the players will need time after coming off a long layoff.

“When you come back from a long layoff, you are obviously going to be rusty. It`s not easy for any overseas team to land in Australia, say, two days prior to a game in Perth and adjust to those conditions straight away, especially when you have that extra bounce and against quality fast bowlers,” he said.

The former cricketer also said that he is in no hurry to judge the star duo, and at that age, it depends on the players of how much hunger is left in them.

“But I think only time will tell. They`ll go to Adelaide, they have some time off to get into the nets, get their minds sorted and get back into action. So I`m in no hurry to judge, but it`s when you come back at that age, after some time, it`s about how much you`re enjoying the sport and how much hunger is there and passion is left in you to play the game,” said Shastri.

The 63-year-old former cricketer also said that providing a little bit of time to Rohit and Virat will sort things out.

“So if you tick the boxes in two out of those three, especially the enjoyment part of it, then you can give them both time because they`ve got class, they`ve got experience and a little bit of time will sort things out. But I`d rather wait than jump and judge immediately,” concluded the veteran of 150 ODI matches.

The second ODI match between Team India and Australia is scheduled to be played on October 23 at the Adelaide Oval.

(With ANI Inputs)

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