India’s star and experienced opening batter, came into the three-match ODI series against Australia down under on the back of tremendous pressure, having not played any competitive cricket in the last six months since the end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for the Mumbai Indians.
But he turned up in practice at Shivaji Park.
Rohit Sharma started the series with an eight-run stay during the opening clash of the series at the Optus Stadium in Perth as the right-hander got an outside edge against Josh Hazlewood into the hands of the slip region. The experienced campaigner scored a fighting half-century during the second encounter at the Adelaide Oval.
But the stage was set for him in the third clash at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, in what was going to be his last international game against Australia down under. During the 237-run chase, the former captain smashed a fine knock of unbeaten 121 runs with the help of 11 boundaries and three sixes to complete the chase by nine wickets with 12 overs to spare.
Watch: Rohit Sharma drops shocking statement on social media after AUS vs IND ODI series
Rohit, the day after the third game, put his image of the Sydney airport and simply wrote ‘one last time, signing off from Sydney,’ which has ignited the speculation of whether he has already decided to retire from the ODI format. But he has confirmed his last trip to Australia in his career, which started in this country more than a decade and a half ago.
‘I have always loved coming here and enjoyed playing cricket at this venue (in Sydney). Brought back nice memories of 2008 (his first tour of Australia). It was fun, don’t know if we’re going to come back (as cricketers), but I’ve enjoyed every bit. We’ve enjoyed playing cricket regardless of all the accolades over the years.’ The Nagpur-born shed light after the SCG game.
Rohit will now turn his focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa at home towards the end of November, after which he will face New Zealand at home.