Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Set for ODI Comeback in Australia Tour

India’s stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are all set to return to international cricket, with their inclusion expected in the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to announce the squad later today (Saturday, October 4).

The three-match ODI series, scheduled to take place later this month, will mark Rohit and Kohli’s first appearance in Indian colours since the Champions Trophy earlier this year. Both had retired from T20 Internationals following India’s victorious T20 World Cup campaign in 2024 and recently announced their retirement from Test cricket as well.

With their focus now solely on the 50-over format, their return is seen as a significant boost to India's preparations ahead of next year's global assignments.

Captaincy Decision Looms

While both players are expected to feature in the squad, the key talking point at the selection meeting will be the ODI captaincy. Whether Rohit will continue to lead the side remains undecided. Sources suggest that selectors plan to speak directly with Rohit regarding his role. The 38-year-old recently passed a fitness test at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, clearing the way for his return.

Core Group from Champions Trophy to Return

Most members of the Champions Trophy-winning squad are likely to retain their places in the ODI side. This includes Shreyas Iyer, who was India’s top run-scorer during that campaign. His return to the ODI team seems assured, though his inclusion in the T20I squad remains under discussion.

Selectors may also consider including young stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer in the extended squad, especially with room for more than 15 players in a bilateral series.

Another name being deliberated is Abhishek Sharma. The in-form left-hander has been dominating the T20 circuit and could be given a chance to make his ODI debut, especially with an eye on grooming the next generation.

Tour Details

India’s tour of Australia begins with the ODI series, with matches scheduled on:

• October 19 – Perth

• October 23 – Adelaide

• October 25 – Sydney

This will be followed by a five-match T20I series from October 29 to November 8. The T20I squad is expected to be named alongside the ODI squad.

With Kohli and Rohit’s return, India's squad will not only gain experience but also leadership stability as the team continues its transition following several retirements from the longest format.