Adelaide ODI Shock: Kohli Confident, But Rohit Faces Pressure After Perth Flop
Ahead of the India vs Australia 2nd ODI at Adelaide, Virat Kohli looks to continue his stellar record while Rohit Sharma aims to bounce back after a poor outing in Perth. Experts back the duo to return to form as India targets a strong comeback.
Adelaide ODI: Virat Kohli Eyes Redemption, Rohit Sharma Under Pressure After Perth Flop
Following their unsatisfactory return to international cricket in Perth, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are looking for redemption in the second ODI against Australia at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday, October 23. The brilliant record of Kohli at the venue gives hope to India, while Rohit will be wanting to recover after another low score.
Kohli’s Fortress: Adelaide Favouring the King Once Again
Virat Kohli has always found Adelaide Oval to be a great place to play. He has scored 244 runs in four ODIs at an average of 61, with two centuries among his runs. His numbers in Test matches are even better — 537 runs in five games at an average of 53.70, including three centuries.
Kohli's record in all formats at Adelaide is simply not comparable. He has scored 975 runs in 12 matches with an average of 65, including five hundreds and a high score of 141. His scoring at the ground has frequently been a major factor in India's victory, thus making him one of the crucial players to keep an eye on in the upcoming battle.
Rohit’s Struggle at Adelaide Continues
Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, has not been very successful in Adelaide. He has only made 131 runs in six ODIs at a miserable average of 21.83 with the best score of 43. After the international break of seven months, Rohit could score only 8 runs at Perth while Kohli got out for a duck after facing eight balls.
Rohit's slow beginning did not stop him from being an essential player in India's batting line-up due to his experience and potential to guide big chases.
Experts Back Senior Duo to Bounce Back
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged fans not to read too much into the Perth setback. “They were playing on probably the bounciest pitch in Australia. It wasn’t easy, especially for players returning after a few months. It was challenging even for regulars like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer,” Gavaskar explained.
He added, “India are still a very strong side. Don’t be surprised if Rohit and Kohli score big in the next two games. The more time they spend in the nets, the faster they’ll regain their rhythm. Once they’re back among runs, India’s totals will easily cross 300-plus again.”
As India gears up for the Adelaide ODI, all eyes will be on whether Kohli continues his dominance at the Oval — and if Rohit can rediscover his magic when it matters most.
