In a stiff net session, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli perfected their acts ahead of the first ODI against England, giving a glimpse of their intent for the three-match series beginning on Thursday in Nagpur as both first uttered words after coming through the drills with elegance and aggression.

Much to the glee of the fans, the Board of Control for Cricket in India, or BCCI, put up a video of the session with both Rohit and Kohli unveiling their stroke play repertoire. The video told the tale of preparation for this series as much as their overall aspiration-building momentum before the ICC Champions Trophy that was supposed to be played across Pakistan and Dubai.
For Rohit, these ODIs offer a chance to further entrench his aggressive approach at the top. Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, he has redefined his role, opting for an attacking mindset that has set the tone for India’s innings. His fearless strokeplay, particularly in powerplays, has provided India with strong starts, often putting the opposition under immediate pressure.
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Vice-captain Shubman Gill acknowledged Rohit’s impact, crediting his ability to seize control early in an innings. “The way Rohit bhai has batted over the last year and a half in ODIs has been game-changing. Taking the momentum right from the start makes it easier for the rest of the batting lineup,” Shubman Gill said.
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For Kohli, the series represents an opportunity to add another milestone to his already legendary ODI career. His Test form has been fluctuating, but he remains unmatched in the 50-over format. With 13,906 runs in ODIs, Kohli is just 94 runs away from joining the elite 14,000-run club. Considering his record in Nagpur—that he averages over 81—he could well have another landmark outing here.
Statistically, Kohli has been unparalleled in the ODIs since 2023, heading the chart for the best average of this period and century tally in that period as well. His solidity in white-ball cricket continues to reinforce his reputation as one of the game’s greatest.
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For Rohit and Kohli, this series, and the Champions Trophy beyond, means more than just another assignment. It’s about maintaining their aura, proving their adaptability, and reminding the world why they remain the backbone of India’s batting. As they take center stage once again, the cricketing fraternity waits for yet another masterclass.