AUS vs IND 2025: Indian batting coach cites unusual reason for Kohli and Rohit’s struggles in Perth

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma (Source: Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

When Indian coach Sitanshu Kotak was asked whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma appeared rusty in Perth, he launched a strong counter. Both veterans struggled to get going in the first ODI against Australia on Sunday, October 19, with Kohli dismissed for a duck and Rohit managing only 8 runs.

With every outing of Kohli and Rohit closely scrutinised, questions were raised about their match readiness for the series opener, given that neither had played international cricket for the past seven months.

However, Kotak attributed their underwhelming performances to the weather conditions, pointing out the frequent rain interruptions during the game. That said, while the weather did play a part in disrupting momentum, both batters were dismissed too early in their innings for the conditions to have significantly affected their focus.

“I do not think so. They played the IPL. The preparation has been very good. I think it was the weather. It would have been the same if Australia had come out to bat first. It is not easy when there are four or five interruptions and every two overs you are going in and coming back out,” said Kotak as quoted by NDTV Sports.

The Indian batting coach dismissed concerns about the duo’s preparation when asked whether he had been in touch with them during their seven-month break. He explained that the team management did not need to intervene or offer guidance so early, given the experience and stature of both players.

“Both of them are very experienced. Before coming to Australia, they had proper preparation. I think it is too early to judge them. They just retired from Test cricket. Coming into the series, we were aware of their fitness levels and the preparation work they had been doing. We had access to their videos from the NCA. With such senior players, you do not need to step in right away if you see they are doing the right things. If you try to get involved too much, that might not be the best approach,” Kotak said.

“Both Virat and Rohit looked in good touch. They batted well in the nets yesterday. I believe they are doing well, to be honest,” he added.

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