Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma‘s highly anticipated return to the Men in Blue jersey was cut short after a 224-day layoff, as he was dismissed for a low score in the first ODI against Australia at Optus Stadium, Perth.
Playing his first competitive match for Team India since March 9, 2025, the former India captain failed to meet the high expectations from fans. Opening the innings alongside new skipper Shubman Gill, Rohit managed to score just 8 runs off 14 balls.
His brief stay at the crease included one boundary, a well-timed four off Mitchell Starc’s bowling. However, his innings came to an end on the fourth ball of the fourth over when the precise bowling of Josh Hazlewood found his edge. The ball flew to the second slip, where Matt Renshaw completed a sharp catch.
The opening partnership with Shubman Gill yielded only 13 runs in 3.4 overs, providing Australia with a crucial early breakthrough on a pitch known for aiding fast bowlers. Rohit Sharma’s early departure means the wait continues for a significant score in his comeback series, with all eyes now on the middle order to rebuild the Indian innings.