Why Did Kohli and Rohit Struggle in Australia?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Weather interruptions can significantly impact player performance.
- Kohli and Rohit had adequate preparations before the series.
- It may be too early to judge their form following their return to international play.
- Experience plays a crucial role in navigating challenging match conditions.
- Both players are actively competing in the IPL alongside international commitments.
Adelaide, Oct 22 (NationPress) India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak expressed his support for the seasoned pair Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, whose performance with the bat fell short during the ODI series opener against Australia. He emphasized that while the duo had adequate preparations for the series, it was the weather conditions that disrupted their rhythm.
Returning to international cricket for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit and Kohli struggled, with Rohit scoring only 8 runs off 14 balls and Kohli experiencing his first-ever duck on Australian soil. India ultimately lost the match by seven wickets (DLS method) in a rain-affected game, which was limited to just 26 overs per side.
As the second match of the three-match series approaches, Kotak addressed inquiries regarding the two senior players' readiness, noting that frequent weather interruptions greatly hindered their ability to build momentum.
"Both players are highly experienced. I believe the weather was a significant factor. It would have been challenging for Australia too, had they batted first. When there are four or five interruptions, it's tough to maintain focus and rhythm," he told reporters on Wednesday.
"Before arriving in Australia, they had thorough preparations. It's premature to judge their performance. Having just retired from Test cricket, they are still competing in the IPL. We are fully aware of their preparation and fitness, including their activities at the National Cricket Academy. I keep a close eye on their progress and video footage," he added.
"Timing is crucial when it comes to intervention. I firmly believe that with such experienced players, unnecessary interference may not be beneficial. They are doing things correctly, and if I step in unnecessarily, it could backfire," Kotak remarked.
Both Kohli and Rohit rejoined the ODI setup after stepping away from Test cricket earlier this year, but their return did not go as expected. Rohit was caught out for 8 by a precise delivery from Josh Hazlewood, while Mitchell Starc dismissed Kohli for a duck after just eight balls.
With both top-order batsmen dismissed early in the powerplay, concerns arose regarding their preparation. The duo's return to competitive cricket following a lengthy hiatus was hampered by a lack of game time, a factor that experts and analysts have cited as a reason for their disappointing performances.