Are Rohit and Kohli's performances "rusty"? Batting Coach Said 'Too Early To Judge'

Though two of India's batting legends, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, failed to display their usual prowess in the first ODI against Australia, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak is not worried about their form. Kotak believes that Rohit and Kohli are in good form due to their extensive experience and consistent practice and will make significant contributions to the team in the upcoming matches. The second match of the series is on Thursday in Adelaide.

Also Read: BCCI Stern Massage To Mohsin Naqvi: 'Hand Over Asia Cup Trophy To India Or... India lost the first ODI in Perth by 7 wickets. Despite the defeat, Kotak expressed confidence that the senior players are not affected by any rustiness. He said, "I don't think there is any lethargy or slowness in Rohit and Kohli's batting. They played in the IPL and their preparation was excellent. Both have a lot of experience, so they need to get into the game over time.

Perth Disaster Draws Flak

The team management has been constantly updated on Rohit and Kohli's training and fitness. Kotak explained, "We know what they're preparing for and their fitness status. Sometimes they visit the National Cricket Academy, where we get videos and updates about their practice and fitness routines."

"It's not always necessary to interfere in the affairs of seniors."

Kotak also clarified that it's not always necessary to interfere in the affairs of senior players. He said, "If they are preparing properly and you interfere too much, it's not right. Intervention for such players should be done at the right time."

Team India's batting coach say about the criticism

In the first ODI, Rohit Sharma returned to the pavilion after scoring only 8 runs, while Virat Kohli was out for zero. Despite such performances, Kotak expressed no concern, saying that the players' ability and experience give them confidence to perform better in the upcoming matches. He also added that the players should focus on their game and maintain a mindset of contributing to the team's victory.

📍Adelaide Oval 🏟️#TeamIndia in the zone ahead of the 2⃣nd #AUSvIND ODI 💪 pic.twitter.com/3hPrAZuRY5

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 22, 2025

Presence of RO-KO is always a major strength for the team...

Team India is now fully prepared for the second ODI in Adelaide. Kotak also emphasized the players' form and mental state. He said that the Australian pitches are fast and bouncy, but the experienced players have the ability to handle them. The presence of Rohit and Kohli has always been a major strength for the team, and their good form means that India's batting lineup remains strong.

Also Read: Where did Virat Kohli err against Starc in Perth? Now a comeback is expected in Adelaide According to Kotak, the team management has paid special attention to the players' fitness and technique. He said, "We have emphasized the batsmen's practice and preparation. Rohit and Kohli's form has been consistently strong, and I am confident that they will play a decisive role for the team in the upcoming matches."

Rohit and Kohli's form has been consistently strong

Therefore, Indian cricket fans should be confident in the performance of Rohit and Kohli. The first match can always be challenging for experienced players, but their ability and experience will soon put them on the right track. Team India is now eyeing the next match, and everyone's hopes are pinned on these two legendary players.