Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 27: In a throwback to their glorious best, Team India’s veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli turned back the clock with a scintillating 168-run partnership for the second wicket in the third ODI against Australia on Saturday. Their composed and clinical performance helped India chase down the target of 237 runs with ease, calming doubts over their place in the national side.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir, addressing the team in the dressing room after the game, praised the senior duo while also highlighting the importance of the opening stand between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who added 69 runs for the first wicket.

“With the bat, I thought the partnership between Shubman and Rohit was very, very important when it was 60 for no loss. And then the partnership between Rohit and Virat was again outstanding. And special mention to another 100 – outstanding. The most important thing was that you finished it off, and Virat as well,” Gambhir said in a video shared by the BCCI.

He lauded the experienced pair for remaining unbeaten and finishing the game in style. “That is something very important from the team’s point of view — how clinical we can be in these chases. We were very good,” Gambhir added.

Following the game, Rohit Sharma hinted that this could be the final series in Australia for both him and Kohli, as the duo nears the twilight of their international careers. Their next challenge will be the home series against South Africa, with the focus now on maintaining the fitness and form they displayed Down Under.

While Rohit Sharma was named Player of the Series for his consistent show across the three matches, Virat Kohli expressed relief at returning to form after enduring two consecutive ducks in the earlier games.

The ‘Ro-Ko’ show once again reminded fans of why the two stalwarts remain the heartbeat of Indian cricket.