Legendary Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has urged fans not to read too much into the failures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the opening ODI between India and Australia in Perth. Ponting expressed confidence that the two Indian greats will rediscover their form and remain strong contenders for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Ponting warned against writing off proven champions, noting that both Rohit and Kohli simply need time to shake off the rust after returning from an extended layoff.
Rohit was dismissed for eight off 14 deliveries Kohli fell for a duck as their long-awaited comebacks ended in disappointment. Both struggled for rhythm on a lively, tempo-friendly Optus Stadium pitch that offered bounce and movement.
Rohit hit one boundary but was troubled by the new-ball duo of Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, who often played and missed as he tried to make an early push. His innings ended when a sharp length came up unexpectedly, catching him by surprise. Kohli, meanwhile, looked shaky and was tempted to play outside his body as the Australians targeted his known weakness outside the off-stump. He was caught at the spot after cutting a wide delivery from Starc.
Although few will overreact to their early release, both Rohit and Kohli realize they need to find their rhythm quickly and put in strong performances to appease critics and justify their continued selection.
Speaking to the International Cricket Council (ICC), Ponting said: “The biggest thing is finding your rhythm and pace. When you have a break, just getting used to the rhythm and pace of the 50-over game takes a bit of time for everyone.
“I would expect to see both guys come back quickly.
Both Kohli and Rohit looked sharp and fit in the field after working hard in the lead-up to the ODI series, but their lack of batting rhythm was evident.
NEVER WRITE OFF CHAMPIONS
India and Australia next face each other on Thursday, October 23 at the Adelaide Oval – a venue where Indian batsmen have historically thrived.
Ponting further added: “I say it all the time – you never write off champions. Those two were among the very best and I’ve said before that I think Virat is the best 50-over player I’ve ever seen. You don’t write them off.
“They will find ways to contribute and win games for their team and if they do that they will almost certainly be part of the 2027 World Cup squad.”
India’s batting unit collectively faltered in Perth, with none other than KL Rahul able to settle on the challenging surface. Stand-in skipper Shubman Gill looked fluid before getting through the leg side, while newly appointed vice-captain Shreyas Iyer once again found himself in trouble with the short ball in pace-friendly conditions.
The rain-interrupted match saw several stoppages during India’s innings. Rahul’s blistering 31-ball 38 and Nitish Reddy’s quick cameo helped India reach 136 for 9 in 26 overs. Led by a smooth 46 from Mitchell Marsh, Australia comfortably chased down the target to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
All eyes will once again be on Rohit and Kohli as the Indian batting line-up aims to deliver a more balanced and confident performance in the second ODI on Thursday.
– The end
Issued by:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
October 21, 2025
