Follow UsReturning to international cricket for the first time since March, Rohit Sharma showcased a very different version of himself in Australia. Gone was the swashbuckling opener who used to launch attacks from the word go and dominate powerplays during his captaincy days. Instead, the 38-year-old displayed patience, discipline, and a deep understanding of conditions - finishing the three-match ODI series as the leading run-getter with 202 runs at an average of 101 and a strike rate of 85.59.
Stripped of India’s ODI captaincy just before the series, Rohit had a rough start, falling for 8 off 14 in the first ODI in Perth. However, he found his rhythm in Adelaide, grinding his way to a hard-fought 73 off 97 balls. By the time he walked out to bat in Sydney for the series decider on October 25 (Saturday), the opener looked back in complete control, and his knock proved it. Rohit struck a fluent, unbeaten 121 off 125 deliveries, hammering 13 fours and three sixes to guide India to a nine-wicket win with more than 11 overs to spare.
Named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series, Rohit reflected on his composed approach and the challenges of batting in Australian conditions. “That's what you expect in Australia. It's not going to be easy, the bowlers are quality,” said Rohit after scoring his 33rd ODI hundred.
“You've got to understand the situation, understand the condition and see what best you can do. And that is what I was trying to do whenever I had the opportunity in the middle. I haven't played for a long time, I had good prep before coming in here. I was slightly confident in my head about how I would go in this tournament.
“I love playing in Australia and in general, Sydney. It's a great ground, great crowd, great pitch as well. So, when you come to places like this, you want to challenge yourself as a batter, as a player. And that is what I expected. I never thought for one second that it is going to be easy. I love doing what I do. And I hope I continue to do that.”
Though no longer India’s ODI captain, Rohit made it clear that he now sees his role as a senior statesman - guiding the next generation of players alongside Virat Kohli. “Although, you know, we couldn't win the series, but we'll take a lot of positives. It's still a very young team that we have. A lot of guys who haven't been to Australia.
“When I came for the first time in this squad, I remember how the seniors around me were there to help us. And it's our job now to make sure that we pass on the right message. Never easy travelling abroad and playing cricket. So, whatever little experience that we got, it's important to pass on that and make sure they handle it pretty well.
“The guys are pretty talented. It's just about understanding how they want to play. When you come to places like this, you need some game plan in your mind before you start. It is important to do that. I've come here so many times. I still go back to the basics of playing cricket. And then, that is something that I feel that I need to pass on to these guys.”
Rohit Sharma will next be seen in action during India’s three-match home ODI series against South Africa, beginning November 30.