Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are set to return to ODI action on Sunday as India begin their three-match series against the West Indies. The two senior batters have already joined the Indian squad in Thiruvananthapuram and have started preparing for the series opener.
The duo last featured for India in an ODI series in the UK, where the Men in Blue endured a disappointing outing. With Rohit and Kohli now back in the setup, attention will be on the experienced pair as India continue their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Ahead of the opening ODI, Rohit and Kohli were involved in a heartwarming interaction with a specially-abled young fan. The youngster was visibly delighted to meet the two former India captains and could not hide his smile during the brief interaction.
Kohli was the first to approach the fan. The former India captain was seen speaking to the youngster’s father before having a short conversation with them. He then signed an autograph for the fan before returning to the training session.
Rohit later came out and spent some time interacting with the youngster. The India veteran also patted him on the back, making the moment even more special.
The youngster then asked Rohit, “Can I have your autograph?” The former India captain responded, “Yes, sure,” before signing for him.
Watch the clip here –
കോലിയെ കാണാനെത്തി, രോഹിതിനൊപ്പവും ഫോട്ടോ എടുക്കാൻ സാധിച്ചതിന്റെ സന്തോഷത്തിൽ നവനീത് #ViratKohli #RohitSharma #Bigtv24x7 #Bigtvlive #BigtvMalayalam #Bigtv pic.twitter.com/7ofbhGcm6i
— BigTv24x7 (@bigtv24x7live) September 25, 2026
Both Rohit and Kohli will be among the players in focus when India take on the West Indies in the upcoming ODI series. Their experience could also prove valuable as the team looks to build towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
India’s results in the 50-over format have been inconsistent since Gautam Gambhir took charge as head coach. The team suffered ODI series defeats against New Zealand and England earlier this year, and the coaching staff will be hoping for an improved run against the West Indies.
Morne Morkel praises Virat Kohli and Sharma’s return
What did the Indian coaches say?
Ahead of the first ODI, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel spoke highly of the experience Rohit and Kohli bring to the squad. He highlighted the role played by the two senior players in helping captain Shubman Gill, particularly through their experience and guidance.
Gill took over as India’s ODI captain last year ahead of the team’s away series against Australia. With Rohit and Kohli now back in the ODI setup, their presence gives the young captain two experienced players to turn to as he continues to grow into the leadership role.
