Now that they only play one format, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson believes it will be difficult for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to continue their stellar run in ODI cricket.
With India playing a lot of Test cricket and T20s dominating the modern game, the ODI format has little place. The forthcoming Australia series, which begins on October 19, will be Rohit and Kohli’s first assignment since the Champions Trophy in February-March after they retired from T20 and Test cricket.
Being a one-format cricketer makes it difficult for a player to stay fresh; Shikhar Dhawan, the former opener for India, is a prime example of this, since he was unable to maintain his spot in the ODI team shortly after taking the captaincy.
“For Virat and Rohit, it’s going to be a challenge playing just one format of international cricket. Getting their skills sharp again to face the best bowlers will take some adjustment.
“But you can never rule out champions and Virat and Rohit are exactly that. It may take a bit of time for them to find the right preparation, but once they do, they’ll be ready to go when they take on Australia,” Watson told ‘Jio Star’.
On October 19, India will begin a three-match ODI series against Australia. Rohit and Kohli, who may be playing their final games in Australia, are naturally the center of attention.
“It might take a little time to find the right preparation rhythm to face the best bowlers in the world. But these two are as good as one-day batters get. It won’t take them long to find the right formula and get back to their best; their class and consistency are second to none,” said Watson.
This year, India has gone undefeated in the ODI format, but Watson believes Australia can snap their winning streak.
“You can see the brand of cricket they’re playing now; it’s fearless and expressive, unlocking their full potential. There’s no surprise they’ve been so dominant this year.
“Do I think Australia can break that unbeaten record? Yes, but they’ll have to be at their very best because India is playing incredibly well. It’s going to be a great series to watch.”
