Follow UsVirat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were among the runs in the third One-Day International (ODI) against Australia in Sydney on October 25 (Saturday). While Rohit slammed a half-century in the second game and followed that up with a ton in the third, Kohli could only muster up 74 runs in the series - all of which came in the final match of the series.
Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin says that he always thought the pair would score runs.
"What stuck out with Rohit, that he looked proper fit and lean. That is why he is able to get those runs and get going. Even while running with Gill, he wanted a third run, but Gill refused. The quality of batting is always there, but if you are fit, you lose weight, you are able to feel light, and skill will take over. Rohit is looking a million dollars. He is looking all set and poised," Ashwin said, according to Times of India.
"He [Rohit] has been one of your best white-ball batters over the decade or so. I was always very confident that he and Virat would both make runs. Virat was not at his best, but still, he found a way to get those runs.
"The straight drive he played was a sight to behold. All his fans will be very happy today. Virat looked like he is properly enjoying himself. I think it is in his mind now that whatever he is playing now is a real gift for him, and he has to enjoy this phase of his career. The whole stadium was clapping for him when he took the first single," Ashwin added.
At SCG, Rohit slammed an unbeaten 121, while Kohli remained not out on 74. The duo added 168 for the second wicket as India went on to win by nine wickets. By doing so, they avoided a whitewash at the hands of Australia.