With rain clouds looming and time running out, India’s cricketing giants Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli face a defining moment in the crucial Adelaide ODI against Australia. The third match of the series—already disrupted by weather—has become a virtual knockout, and the spotlight is burning brighter than ever on the veteran batters .
Why This Adelaide ODI Is a Must-Win
After a washed-out second ODI in Sydney, the series stands level at 1-1. A loss in Adelaide would hand Australia an unassailable lead with one game remaining. More critically, it would raise serious questions about India’s transition strategy ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup—especially with key bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya sidelined due to injury .
“The clock is ticking,” admitted a senior team official off the record. “This isn’t just about one match. It’s about proving the core can still deliver under pressure.”
Rohit Sharma’s Form: Crisis or Comeback?
Rohit, India’s captain and opener, has managed just 42 runs across his last four ODI innings. Critics argue his strike rate has dipped, and his once-explosive starts have turned tentative. Yet, batting coach Vikram Rathour (formerly Kotak, as referenced in early reports) remains steadfast.
“Rohit has the experience and the technique. One big knock is all it takes—and Adelaide’s pitch often rewards positive batting,” Rathour told reporters at the pre-match presser .
Adelaide Oval holds special memories: India chased down 359 here in 2019, with Rohit smashing a century. Can history repeat itself?
Bowling Woes Without Bumrah and Pandya
India’s biggest headache isn’t just batting—it’s the bowling attack. Missing Bumrah’s yorkers and Pandya’s death-over control, the team is scrambling for balance. Enter Kuldeep Yadav.
The left-arm wrist-spinner, recalled after a strong domestic season, could be the X-factor. His ability to extract turn even on flat tracks makes him a viable option, especially if rain leaves the pitch damp.
Potential Playing XI (Predicted)
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
- Washington Sundar
Adelaide’s Favorable History for India
Despite Australia’s dominance at home, India has won 3 of its last 5 ODIs at Adelaide Oval. The ground’s short boundaries suit India’s power-hitters, and evening dew often aids chasing teams—a factor that could play into Kohli’s strengths.
Kohli, though consistent, hasn’t scored a century since 2022 in ODIs. Fans are hoping this is the venue where “King Kohli” reclaims his throne.
Weather Watch: Will Rain Strike Again?
Meteorologists predict a 60% chance of showers during the match window. If the game is reduced to 20–30 overs, India’s middle-order depth and Kuldeep’s spin could become decisive advantages.