As India gears up for a crucial ODI series in Australia starting October 19th, former spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his high expectations for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The return of these seasoned cricketers for the ODI leg, following their Test retirements after the Champions Trophy 2025, has the cricketing world buzzing. Harbhajan firmly believes their experience will be vital for India’s success.
Harbhajan Singh strongly refuted any concerns regarding Virat Kohli’s physical fitness during a discussion. He praised Kohli’s commitment to fitness, stating, “Please don’t ask any questions about Virat’s fitness. When it comes to fitness, he’s a guru. Everyone follows what he does.” He further elaborated that Kohli is exceptionally fit, potentially surpassing many of his contemporaries, and remains one of the fittest athletes in international cricket today.
Looking ahead to the Australian tour, Harbhajan predicted that both Rohit and Kohli would excel in the challenging conditions. He pointed to Kohli’s formidable record in Australia, where he averages over 51 across 29 matches. “He’s now heading to Australia, his favourite place to bat, and I’m sure he’ll once again show his mettle there,” Harbhajan confidently stated. He expressed equal confidence in Rohit, anticipating that both batsmen will score heavily and significantly contribute to India’s victories.
Harbhajan voiced a specific wish for Kohli’s performance: at least two centuries in the three ODIs. He highlighted Kohli’s characteristic ability to elevate his game in difficult situations and on big stages. “Some players thrive when things get difficult; that’s when they bring out their best. And Virat Kohli is one of those players,” Harbhajan noted. He believes Kohli’s familiarity with Australian grounds and his recent IPL form make him a strong contender for significant individual scores.
This series represents a significant international comeback for both Rohit and Kohli. Intense preparation is underway, with the duo aiming to make a lasting impression before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Harbhajan’s optimistic outlook mirrors the anticipation of fans worldwide, who are eager to witness these legendary Indian batsmen deliver memorable performances in Australia.