India began the 2025 ODI series against South Africa on a strong note in Ranchi, thanks to a classic partnership between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The two senior players once again showed why they are considered one of the best batting pairs in world cricket. Their calm and confident batting not only rescued India after an early setback but also set up a big total for the team.
India lost an early wicket, but Rohit and Kohli quickly took control. They put together a solid 136-run stand that brought stability to the innings and shifted pressure onto South Africa. Rohit played with his usual flair, scoring 57 runs off 51 balls. His quick boundaries and sixes helped India maintain momentum.
After Rohit’s dismissal, Kohli continued to dominate. He reached a smooth and commanding century, guiding the middle overs with confidence. His innings turned India’s strong start into a powerful total, helping the team finish at 349 for 8 in 50 overs.
Beyond the numbers, the match highlighted an important point: Rohit and Kohli remain pillars of Indian cricket. Even as formats change and new players enter the team, this experienced pair continues to deliver in big moments. Their partnership in Ranchi added yet another memorable chapter to their long list of achievements.
But even as they break records, questions continue to surround their future. India currently has a rare opportunity to try different combinations at the top of the batting order, especially with injuries ruling out captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer. This also gives India a chance to test its bench strength.
Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, but their sudden exit from Test cricket earlier this year surprised many. After India’s poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the two stepped away from the longest format but chose to continue in ODIs.
There were doubts about whether the two would stay motivated in their late 30s while playing only one format. Before the Australia ODI series earlier this year, social media was full of speculation that both might retire from international cricket soon. But they proved their critics wrong.
Rohit, after focusing hard on fitness, ended up as India’s highest scorer in Australia, hit a century in the deciding match, and won Player of the Tournament. Kohli, despite starting the series with two ducks, responded with a steady half-century in the final ODI.
For a team constantly adapting to fresh talent and shifting conditions, having Rohit and Kohli performing at this level brings much-needed stability. Their form also sends a clear message that both players are still fully prepared and capable of leading India into the 2027 World Cup.
Shivam Verma is a journalist with over three years of experience in digital newsrooms. He currently works at NewsX, having previously worked for Firstpost and DNA India. A postgraduate diploma holder in Integrated Journalism from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, Shivam focuses on international affairs, diplomacy, defence, and politics. Beyond the newsroom, he is passionate about football—both playing and watching—and enjoys travelling to explore new places and cuisines.
