‘Australia series could decide future of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli,’ says Ravi Shastri

**Will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Continue Playing After Australia ODIs?**

*By Parth Dhall | October 13, 2025, 07:13 PM*

Former India coach Ravi Shastri believes the upcoming ODI series against Australia will be crucial for the futures of veteran batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. According to Shastri, their continuation in the 50-over format hinges on their “form, fitness, and hunger” during the Australia tour.

### Series Significance: A Test of Fitness and Form

Speaking to cricket.com.au at Kayo Sport’s Summer of Cricket launch, Shastri emphasized the importance of this series for both Rohit and Kohli. He remarked,

*”That’s why they’re here (playing the ODI series against Australia). They’re part of the mix. It depends on their fitness, their hunger, and, of course, form.”*

Notably, both players have retired from T20 International and Test cricket, leaving ODIs as their sole active international format.

### The Value of Experience in Big Matches

Shastri also highlighted how valuable experienced players are in high-pressure matches. Referencing the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy — which India won with significant contributions from Rohit and Kohli — he said,

*”But there’s no substitute for experience when it comes to the big games, as we saw in the Champions Trophy. Come the big games and the big boys step up.”*

This perspective was shared in the context of Australian star Steve Smith’s retirement from ODI cricket earlier this year, signifying a transitional phase for senior players in international cricket.

### Emerging Young Talent Pushing Veterans

Acknowledging the presence of promising youngsters in the Indian squad, Shastri praised the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Tilak Varma, who are all vying for spots and pushing established players. He also mentioned the depth in all-rounders, naming Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel as key assets.

*”A lot of good young talent and a lot of all-rounders as well in Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel,”* Shastri added.

### Upcoming Match Schedule: India vs Australia ODI Series

The three-match ODI series between India and Australia is scheduled as follows:

– **1st ODI:** October 19, Perth
– **2nd ODI:** October 23, Adelaide
– **3rd ODI:** October 25, Sydney

Following the ODIs, India will play a five-match T20 International series against Australia, beginning October 29 in Canberra.

### Squad Update: Shubman Gill Named ODI Captain

Earlier this month, Shubman Gill replaced Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain for the tour of Australia. Shreyas Iyer will serve as the vice-captain.

**India’s ODI Squad:**
Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (wicket-keeper), and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

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The ODI series Down Under will not only test India’s mettle but could also decide the international future of two of cricket’s modern greats, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide will be eagerly watching their performances closely.
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