Updated 18 October 2025 at 17:25 IST

'Everyone Knows His Contribution': Virat Kohli's Childhood Coach Hits Back At Critics, Takes Dig At People Questioning Ex-India Skipper's Abilities

Virat Kohli has played 302 ODIs for India. The former India skipper has scored 14181 runs from 15192 balls that he faced in his ODI career. Kohli has an average of 57.88 in the ODI format

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Virat Kohli during Champions Trophy 2025 | Image: Associated Press

The India vs Australia three-match ODI series will be closely watched as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are returning to play for India after seven months. The star duo last represented India during the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy, which the 'men in blue' won.

After retiring from T20Is last year, the star duo also announced their retirement from Test cricket earlier this year. The first game of the three-match ODI series will be played on October 19, 2025, at the Perth Stadium.

ALSO READ | 'I've Had Numerous Conversations': Shubman Gill Gives Insight Into His Discussions With Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli Ahead Of IND vs AUS ODIs

Rajkumar Sharma Hits Out At Rohit-Virat's Critics

There are a lot of questions around Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's international future. Shubman Gill's appointment as the skipper of the One Day format is a clear indication that the Indian team management is already looking towards the ODI World Cup. The upcoming India vs Australia series will not only be Shubman Gill's test as the ODI skipper, but it will also go a long way in determining Rohit and Virat's future in the ODI format.

Despite being at the forefront of many Indian victories, a certain section of fans have been constantly asking Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to prove themselves. Rajkumar Sharma, Virat Kohli's childhood coach, spoke about the star duo and how they do not need to prove anything to anybody.

"Virat doesn't have to prove anything. Everyone knows his contribution. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are great players, and they have nothing left to prove, because the whole of India knows their contribution to Indian cricket, so if they have to prove themselves at this stage, then it will be a very funny thing," said Rajkumar Sharma while speaking to ANI.

ALSO READ | Shubman Gill On The Cusp Of Joining Sachin Tendulkar In Unique List, Spotlight On Youngster In Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli's Comeback Series

Shubman Gill Opens Up On Leading Rohit And Virat

Prior to the three-match ODI series, skipper Shubman Gill said that things are extremely normal within the team, and he looks forward to use Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's experience on the field. Shubman also said that he has had multiple discussions with the former skippers in how the team can be taken forward.

Published By : Jishu Bhattacharya

Published On: 18 October 2025 at 17:25 IST