Mitchell Marsh Hopes Kohli and Rohit Don’t Dominate Too Much in Australia ODIs

Australia | As India gears up for their three-match ODI series against Australia starting October 19, host skipper Mitchell Marsh shared his excitement about facing Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. However, he also light-heartedly expressed hope that the legendary duo doesn’t perform too well on Australian soil.

This ODI series marks the return of Kohli and Rohit in Indian colors for the first time since their victorious run in the ICC Champions Trophy Final earlier this year.

“I’ve had the privilege of playing against them numerous times. They’re absolute legends of the game,” Marsh said during a pre-series media interaction. “Virat, especially in white-ball cricket, is arguably the best chaser the game has ever seen.”

Marsh highlighted the anticipation surrounding their return and the draw they bring to cricket fans. “It’s no surprise ticket sales are through the roof. People want to see them in action. And if this ends up being their final tour in Australia, I hope they enjoy it—but maybe not play too much great cricket,” he added with a smile.

Stellar Form Since Last Australia Series

Since India’s last bilateral series against Australia ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been in outstanding form.

Rohit Sharma has featured in 23 ODIs, amassing 1,137 runs at an average of 49.43 and a staggering strike rate of 123.45. His tally includes two centuries and seven half-centuries, with a top score of 131. Notably, he was instrumental in India’s World Cup campaign at home, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer with 597 runs in 11 innings.

He also made a strong impact in the ICC Champions Trophy, scoring 180 runs in five innings, including a decisive 76-run knock in the final against New Zealand.

Virat Kohli has been equally dominant, scoring 1,154 runs in 22 matches since that Australia series. Averaging 64.11, he has struck four centuries and nine fifties, with a highest score of 117.

As two of India’s most iconic cricketers return to the ODI fold, fans in Australia and around the world will be watching closely—hoping to witness history, even if the home captain hopes it’s only in moderation.