Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to return to international cricket in October 2025 for India’s ODI series against Australia, marking a highly anticipated moment for fans and a symbolic continuation of two illustrious careers. The duo, who recently stepped away from Test and T20I formats, will now channel their experience exclusively into ODIs—offering both nostalgia and leadership as India transitions into a new generation of cricket.
Cricket Australia has planned a grand farewell atmosphere, viewing this as potentially the last tour of these two Indian greats on Australian soil. Tributes, ceremonies, and matchday salutes are expected as recognition of their remarkable contributions to the game, both as icons and competitors. Their return isn’t just ceremonial—India still see them as vital assets in the 50-over format, especially with the 2027 World Cup cycle in mind.
The three-match ODI series will take place across Perth (October 19), Adelaide (October 23), and Sydney (October 25). The fixtures are not only significant for the cricket they promise but also for the emotional weight they carry. Australian crowds are expected to turn up in large numbers to bid farewell to two players who have shaped some of the fiercest bilateral contests in recent memory.
For India, Kohli and Rohit’s comeback serves strategic as well as sentimental purposes. The team’s ODI schedule is light this year, with only nine matches lined up. This allows the duo to manage their workload while still contributing meaningfully, especially as mentors to emerging stars like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Their limited appearances in 2025—aside from Australia—include a tour to Bangladesh and home games against South Africa. With the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, India seems to be using 2025 as a transition year, balancing the past and the future. Kohli and Rohit’s experience, match awareness, and fitness make them ideal anchors for this phase.
This return also reflects a larger trend in modern cricket—players opting for selective formats to prolong their careers. Both Rohit and Kohli have been vocal about the toll of continuous multi-format cricket. By focusing on ODIs, they can contribute meaningfully without overstretching their bodies.
Fans, meanwhile, are ecstatic. The pairing of Kohli and Rohit at the top or one-drop in an ODI lineup has delivered some of India’s most memorable white-ball moments. Their camaraderie, on-field communication, and leadership have defined an era. Now, their reunion in blue will be watched not just for runs and milestones, but for the celebration of legacies nearing their final chapters.
In essence, this October series against Australia isn’t just about cricket—it’s a tribute tour, a farewell series, and a reminder of what greatness looks like. Whether this is truly the last dance or merely a new rhythm remains to be seen. But what’s certain is that the spotlight will burn brightest on two men who have carried Indian cricket on their shoulders for over a decade.