After a stellar 121* and India’s emphatic victory over Australia in the third ODI, Rohit Sharma’s childhood coach, Dinesh Lad, confirmed that the veteran batter plans to retire after playing the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. Rohit’s knock not only marked his 50th international hundred but also helped him finish as the top run-scorer in the recently concluded ODI series against Australia.
Rohit and Virat shine in memorable partnership
During India’s chase of 237, Rohit and Virat Kohli shared a commanding 168-run unbeaten partnership that thrilled fans in the stadium, possibly marking their last outing together on Australian soil. Rohit’s 121* came off 125 balls, featuring 13 fours and three sixes, while Virat contributed a steady 74* off 81 balls, hitting seven fours. Their combined performance ensured India’s victory by nine wickets.
“The way Rohit batted today and how he contributed to India’s win — it felt great to watch the match. He will play the 2027 ODI World Cup and retire after that,” Lad said. Speaking on Virat Kohli, he added, “There are misunderstandings about Virat every day. He is someone who can thrive anytime and anywhere. The way he played today, it feels good. Sachin Tendulkar had once said that Rohit and Virat would be the players to break his records. Both getting closer to his records feels really good.”
Australia’s innings falters
Australia batted first after winning the toss, posting 236 in 46.4 overs. A solid 61-run opening stand between skipper Mitchell Marsh (41 off 50 balls) and Travis Head (29 off 25 balls) gave them early stability. Matt Short contributed 30 off 41 balls, while a 59-run partnership between Matt Renshaw (56 off 58) and Alex Carey (24 off 37) took Australia to a competitive position at 183/3. However, a middle-order collapse, triggered by Harshit Rana’s four-wicket haul (4/39) and Washington Sundar’s two wickets (2/44), left Australia struggling. Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket each.
India’s seamless chase
Chasing 237, India started strongly with a 69-run opening partnership between Shubman Gill (24 off 26) and Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Virat’s unbeaten stand then ensured a comfortable win for India. The victory marked a memorable series finale, with Rohit named both ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ for his exceptional contribution, scoring 202 runs including a century and a fifty.
Looking ahead
With Rohit Sharma set to retire after the 2027 World Cup, his legacy in Indian cricket remains unparalleled. Fans and experts alike celebrated his record-breaking performances and his enduring partnership with Virat Kohli. Both players continue to edge closer to the legendary milestones set by Sachin Tendulkar, solidifying their place in cricket history.