Indian cricket veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli delivered a masterclass in the third ODI against Australia on October 25, 2025, at Sydney Cricket Ground, leading India to a commanding nine-wicket victory. The unbeaten 168-run partnership for the third wicket, with Rohit scoring 121 not out and Kohli contributing 74 not out, ensured India avoided a series whitewash. Both players, who faced early struggles in the series, silenced critics with their dominant performances.
Rohit, after a modest eight runs in the first match, roared back with 73 in the second and a chanceless 33rd ODI century in the final game, placing him third behind Kohli (51) and Sachin Tendulkar (49) for most ODI hundreds. Kohli, overcoming two consecutive ducks, notched an unbeaten 74, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in men’s ODI history with 14,255 runs from 305 matches, trailing only Tendulkar.
South African legend AB de Villiers passionately defended the duo on his YouTube channel, condemning detractors who seek their downfall as they near the later stages of their careers. “Why pour negative energy into players who’ve given their lives for their country and cricket?” de Villiers questioned, criticizing the “cockroaches” emerging to push Rohit and Kohli down. He urged fans to celebrate their remarkable contributions to the sport.
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De Villiers emphasized that while a minority spreads negativity, the majority of fans revere Rohit and Kohli for their stellar careers. Their Sydney performance, marked by free-flowing strokeplay and unwavering focus, underscored their enduring class and ability to rise above criticism. The partnership not only secured a consolation win but also reaffirmed their pivotal roles in Indian cricket.
As India’s cricketing icons continue to defy expectations, their latest heroics serve as a testament to their skill and determination. With the series loss overshadowed by this emphatic victory, Rohit and Kohli’s resurgence has sparked renewed admiration, proving their legacy remains as formidable as ever on the global stage.
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