Australia's destructive batter Travis Head lavished praise on Indian batting superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series, which will start from October 19. Notably, there are speculations about the duo's ODI future as they have already retired from T20Is and Tests.
Travis Head for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
The speculations about their future began to heat up when the BCCI announced India's squad for the Australia series, where chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced Shubman Gill as Rohit's successor to lead India in ODIs. However, Head reckons that Rohit and Virat will feature for India until the 2027 ODI World Cup.
“They have been awesome for India, I guess Axar can speak more highly about them than myself. But two quality players, two of the best white-ball players. Virat is probably the greatest white-ball player. Rohit is not that far behind,” Head told reporters.
“Someone who opens the batting. I have huge regard for what Rohit has been able to do. I am sure they will be missed at some stage, but I think they both are going until 2027 (looks at Axar Patel and the all-rounder smiles). They both are trying to get to the World Cup. It is great for the game that they are still playing,” he added.
Axar Patel for Rohit and Virat
Axar Patel, who will be playing as the premier all-rounder in the playing XI in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, said both Rohit and Virat are thorough professionals and they are raring to go for the series opener.
“They are world-class players. They know what to do, and they are ready to go. They are professionals and they know what to do. They are ready to go,” said Axar Patel.
“If you speak about their form, they have been preparing well, hence I think they are ready. Everyone has given their fitness Test, they are raring to go now,” he added.
Rohit and Virat's net session in Australia
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli hit the nets at the Perth Stadium on Friday at Optus Stadium in Perth for the much-anticipated three-match ODI series against Australia. Sports Tak understands that the senior batting duo looked in fine touch as they spent considerable time in the middle during an intense training session. Rohit was seen perfecting his trademark pull and flick shots, while Kohli focused on his cover drives and straight strokes, working meticulously on timing and placement. Apart from that, Rohit and Virat were also spotted sharing a laugh during the practice.