Rohit Sharma Eyes India A vs Australia A Series as Final Prep for Australia Tour
In a rather interesting turn of events, India’s ODI skipper Rohit Sharma is reportedly considering featuring in the upcoming three unofficial ODIs between India A and Australia A in Kanpur, scheduled from September 30 to October 5.
This move has raised eyebrows in the cricketing circles, as senior players of Rohit’s stature seldom participate in “A” matches. However, for the 38-year-old opener, the decision appears to be a calculated step aimed at sharpening his skills before India’s much-anticipated tour of Australia, which includes three ODIs and five T20Is.
Rohit, who last donned the Indian jersey during the Champions Trophy final earlier this year, has since announced his retirement from Test cricket. While he continues to lead India in ODIs and remains an influential figure in the dressing room, his participation in the India A games signals his determination to stay match-ready, particularly for the challenges of batting on fast and bouncy Australian tracks.
According to RevSportz, Rohit has been actively training under the watchful eyes of Abhishek Nayar, with a clear focus on regaining rhythm and match intensity. Insiders believe the Kanpur series could serve as the perfect warm-up platform for Rohit, who understands that adapting early to Australia’s conditions will be vital for India’s success in the full-fledged tour.
Interestingly, these ODIs may also represent one of the final international assignments in Rohit’s illustrious career. With over 11,000 ODI runs and numerous memorable knocks under his belt, the veteran opener is keen on finishing strong and leaving a lasting impact before he eventually decides to step away from the game.
For the younger India A players, Rohit’s presence in the squad—if confirmed—would not only provide invaluable experience but also an opportunity to share the dressing room with one of modern cricket’s finest white-ball batsmen.
As fans await official confirmation, one thing is certain: Rohit Sharma’s decision reflects both his professionalism and his burning desire to keep delivering at the highest level, even in the twilight of his career.
Rohit Sharma’s Future in ODIs: Selectors Eye Transition Beyond 2025
At present, the 50-over format remains the only international format where Rohit Sharma is still active. Having already retired from T20Is in 2024 and Tests in 2025, the veteran opener is keen on maximizing his contributions in ODIs while also preparing for what could be the final phase of his international career.
However, reports suggest that the Indian selectors are already planning beyond Rohit with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup. While his experience and leadership continue to be invaluable, there is a clear push towards grooming the next generation. In this transition phase, selectors may even ask Rohit to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, beginning December 2025, as a way to maintain his competitive edge and stay in contention for the ODI setup.
Meanwhile, the selection committee is set to meet soon after the conclusion of the Asia Cup 2025 to discuss the roadmap for India’s ODI side. One of the key talking points will be succession planning, particularly in terms of captaincy. Reliable middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to take over the ODI captaincy once Rohit eventually decides to step away.
For now, Rohit’s decision to play in the India A vs Australia A series shows his hunger to stay relevant and in rhythm ahead of the demanding Australia tour. But the bigger picture suggests that Indian cricket is steadily moving towards a new leadership era, with Rohit likely to mentor the transition while making the most of his remaining time in blue.
Rohit’s ODI Commitment Amid Retirement From Other Formats
Currently, ODIs remain the only format where Rohit is still active. He retired from T20Is in 2024 and from Tests in 2025, signaling that the 50-over format could be the last chapter of his storied international career.
However, reports suggest that the selectors are already planning for the future, with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind. As part of this process, Rohit may even be asked to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting in December 2025, to maintain match fitness and stay in contention for India’s ODI squad.
The Leadership Transition
The Indian selectors are expected to meet after the Asia Cup 2025 to deliberate on the long-term composition of the ODI side. While Rohit remains the current leader, reliable middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to take over the ODI captaincy once the veteran decides to retire.
This development highlights Rohit’s dual role at this stage of his career: staying competitive as a player while also indirectly mentoring the team as it moves toward a new leadership era.
Why the India A Series Matters
Beyond Rohit’s personal preparations, his participation in the India A vs Australia A ODIs could serve a dual purpose for Indian cricket:
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Match Fitness for Rohit: Ensuring the captain stays sharp before a crucial overseas series.
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Strategy Testing: Giving the team management a chance to experiment with combinations ahead of the Australia tour.
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Leadership Evaluation: Allowing selectors to observe how potential future captains perform alongside a senior figure.
Also Read –Asia Cup 2025: “Not even in reserves” – Ex-India cricketer slams Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion
