As India began their limited-overs tour of Australia, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were the main attractions at the Optus Stadium nets in Perth. After months away from international cricket since the Champions Trophy, both senior players returned to action during an optional training session that drew excited fans eager for autographs and selfies.
Kohli, back at one of his favorite grounds, appeared focused and fluent as he faced a lively spell from Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and local bowlers. His sharp footwork and clean strokes hinted that the break hadn’t dulled his rhythm. The session marked Kohli’s first major net practice since the IPL, and with this being likely his final Australian tour, his preparation carried extra significance.
Rohit, meanwhile, started slowly, showing some rust in his timing and footwork before gradually finding his groove. Without the captain’s armband—leadership duties now handled by Shubman Gill—Rohit spent additional time in the nets, finishing strong with a series of confident hits.
KL Rahul, the only member from India’s Test squad to train, kept his session short, while Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Mohammed Siraj arrived later with the coaching staff. The overall mood was relaxed, contrasting with last year’s closed-door Test preparations at the WACA.
Fans were treated to an approachable and cheerful Kohli and Rohit, both smiling and interacting freely. Kohli’s return has also sparked anticipation for the three-match ODI series, with more than 50,000 fans expected at Optus Stadium for the opening clash on Sunday.
For Perth, this series marks the beginning of a thrilling Australian summer of cricket, leading into the Ashes later in November. While Australia’s own optional session was low-key—featuring Mitchell Starc’s fiery pace and a recovering Jhye Richardson—the buzz surrounding Kohli and Rohit ensured that all eyes were firmly on Team India’s return.
