As the cricketing world turns its eyes to the India vs Australia ODI series kicking off on October 19, 2025, a poignant question hangs in the air: is this the last time we’ll see Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in action Down Under?
Former greats AB de Villiers and Matthew Hayden have weighed in, and their words are a powerful mix of admiration, respect, and a sobering acknowledgment of time’s inevitable march.
Rohit & Virat: The Invaluable Mentors
Both De Villiers and Hayden were effusive in their praise, not just for the duo’s on-field brilliance, but for the leadership and guidance they offer to India’s next generation. Hayden described their presence in the dressing room as nothing short of “gold.”
“Having Rohit, Virat in the house is gold,” Hayden stated, highlighting their role as mentors for the young Indian squad .
AB de Villiers echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the stability and experience the two veterans bring to a team in transition. Their calm demeanor and vast knowledge are seen as critical assets, especially in high-pressure tournaments.
The Elephant in the Room: Is This Their Last Tour?
While celebrating their current contributions, both legends couldn’t ignore the looming reality. At 36, Virat Kohli has already defied expectations with his longevity, and Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, is also in the twilight of his illustrious career .
Hayden’s words were particularly heartfelt: “I hope it is not their last tour, but you can’t play forever” . This simple statement captures the bittersweet feeling shared by fans worldwide. The 2025 Australian tour could very well be their final chapter on these shores.
Focus on the Future: The 2027 World Cup Dream
Despite the speculation, the focus for Kohli and Sharma remains firmly on the future. Both players have their sights set on the 2027 ODI World Cup, a tournament they are desperate to win. Their current performances are not just about the present series but about proving they have what it takes to lead India to glory in two years’ time.
A Legacy Beyond Statistics
Their legacy is already secure. Between them, they have rewritten record books, led India to numerous victories, and inspired a generation of cricketers. However, their final act may be their most important: ensuring a smooth and successful transition for the next set of Indian stars.
Their ability to balance their own ambitions with the team’s long-term health is a testament to their maturity and dedication to Indian cricket.
What This Means for Team India
Their continued presence provides a crucial bridge between eras. Young talents like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal benefit immensely from sharing the field with such legends. The lessons learned in the nets and in the middle from Rohit and Virat are invaluable and cannot be replicated in any coaching manual.
As the first ODI approaches, fans will be watching not just for runs and wickets, but for one more glimpse of the magic that these two icons have brought to the game for nearly two decades.