The dead rubber of the three-ODI series saw Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli dominating the proceedings in the run chase. At Sydney Cricket Ground, the fans got their money’s worth as Rohit scored a century and Kohli scored a half-century. After the comprehensive nine-wicket win, Rohit and Kohli thanked the Australian crowd as it is probably their last tour of Australia. However, Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg feels that it does not have to be the last time they entertain the Australian crowd. Like Ravichandran Ashwin has signed a deal with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26, Greenberg wants to keep the dialogue open and is hopeful that the legends play in Australia again.
"I think in the short to medium term, I think it is realistic," CA's Greenberg said on October 25 as quoted by cricket.com.au. "We're going to keep the dialogue open."
What Ro-Ko said after the match
When Rohit came to Australia for the first time, even the Indian Premier League (IPL) was in nascent stages and he found out that he will be teammates with legendary Adam Gilchrist. After an unbeaten 121 against Mitchell Marsh-led side, Rohit talked about his fond memories on Australia tour.
"I've always loved coming here," Rohit told Fox Cricket. "I enjoy playing cricket here in Australia. Fond memories of 2008 and nice way to finish getting that knock and getting that win as well.
"I don't know if we'll be coming back to Australia, but it was fun all these years that we played here. A lot of good memories, bad memories, but all in all, I'll take the cricket that I played here."
Kohli who recorded two consecutive ducks for the first time in his ODI career talked about how international cricket continues to teach him even at this stage.
"You score so many runs in international cricket but then the game shows you everything even at this stage, almost 37 in not many days, and I feel like I don't know how to get a run," Kohli said.
Ro-Ko’s BBL stint in future unlikely
Currently, the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) does not allow their international players to play in overseas T20 franchise leagues. They have to retire completely from Indian cricket including the IPL to be eligible for other franchise leagues.
The two former captains aim to play in the next ODI World Cup which will be played in 2027. Rohit will be 40 by then whereas Kohli will be 39. They may decide to end their cricket career across formats (even T20 leagues) after their last World Cup appearance.