The India vs Australia ODI series begins on October 19th, 2025 – a familiar new rivalry, but with an unfamiliar emotion. As Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma embark on what’s almost confirmed to be their final tour Down Under, one question echoes across cricket fan’s minds: Will this be their last ODI series too ? or will we see them playing 2027 ODI world Cup ?
Final Tour – The End of an Era in Australia
As we all know due to the rise of T20 cricket, teams are not playing too many ODI games. Both players are now retired from T20 and Test formats. So, it’s almost confirmed this will be there tour in Australia and they will be featuring last time in any international match in Australian grounds.
Both players have there iconic moments in Australia. Rohit’s 171 vs Australia in 2016 his highest score in Australia always be rememebered.
For me Virat’s best innings is one he played against Sri Lanka at Hobarts where India achieved the target of more 300+ runs within 37 overs, and even 2 balls were still left from the over. We can’t forget that inning.
We can not count the achievements of both players at any ground. We can not define what they achieved and what they served to Indian Team.
But beyond the nostalgia, there’s a bigger question hanging over this series – will they play another ODI after this ?
The Big Question: Is This Their Final ODI Series ?
Indian selectors has moved the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, and appointed the Shubman Gill as new ODI captain. Was this required ? Why ? India won the 50 over champions trophy this year under Rohit’s captaincy. Leave, as this post is not about Rohit’s captaincy, will discuss some other day.
Let’s come back to topic, Neither has officially retired and we know about their form as we saw them playing in recent tournaments. Rohit’s impact at the top and Kohli’s game to go to the end, that was mantra for success of Indian in recent past, and both players did there job exceptionally well.
If we talk about fitness and age then, nobody can question about VK’s match fitness at age 36 as per google. Yes I know he will be near 38 in 2027, but player like Kohli with his fitness levels, will be more than fit for the team.
There are questions on Rohit’s fitness, as he is 38 now as per google. But his performance is impactful and has won matches for India in recent past as well.
Regardless of age, form, there are mixed indicators, reports suggesting the team – like selectors may move on after this cycle. If that’s true, has the message been conveyed to them ? Will they get farewell match in India ?
If this is the final chapter, fans couldn’t have asked for a grander setting.
What’s at Stake – Beyond Just Wins and Losses
For Kohli and Rohit: a chance to finish their ODI journey on their own terms. They do not need to prove anything, but they can finish at their best if this is their last series.
For India: a glimpse of the future – how will the team look without its two icons ? India have to look for options, number 3 and number 1 opening position.
Key Moments to Watch in the Series
Can Kohli finish his Australian legacy with another century ?
Will Rohit play more freely, knowing this might be the end ?
How will the younger players perform under their shadow ?
The emotional response of fans and teammates.
Conclusion
Whether this series marks the end or just a pause, one thing is certain – Indian cricket won’t be the same without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma walking out together. If this truly is their last ODI series, it’s not just the end of an era – it’s the closing of a golden chapter.
Do you think they’ll return for one final home series. or is this the last ? or will we see them in 2027 WC ?
