As supporters gathered at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on Friday, Rohit Sharma began his long-awaited return to serious practice before India’s next ODI matches with Australia. The 38-year-old Indian player, who is ready to participate in his initial ODI games from the time of the Champions Trophy 2025, was welcomed by a large number of passionate fans chanting his identity and advising him of a single thing, the 2027 World Cup dream.
Fans cheer passionately for Rohit Sharma during his practice session
The star opening batter, appearing fitter and more focused, seemed in great form as he performed various classic drives and pull shots during the two-hour practice. Practice clips have become extremely popular on social media, where viewers can notice fans applauding Rohit with cheers regarding India’s upcoming major goal. One fan’s voice clearly described the feeling, declaring, “2027 ka World Cup tumhare bina nahi jeet paayenge Rohit bhai!” (We won’t be able to win the 2027 World Cup without you, Rohit bhai).
The environment at the legendary area was lively, with followers waving Indian flags and keeping banners greeting Rohit’s return into action. As he released a signature pull shot, another fan shouted, “Australia mein bhi aise hi maarna hai, saamne Starc hai!” (Play like this in Australia too, imagine Mitchell Starc in front of you). These enthusiastic messages functioned as a reminder of the emotional bond among Rohit and his fans, who continue to view him as the cornerstone of India’s World Cup goals.
Here’s the video:
Fans shouting in front of Rohit Sharma during his practice session 🗣️- “2027 ka World Cup jeetna hai Rohit bhai, tumhare bina possible nahi hai! Australia me bhi aise hi maarna hai… dekho dekho, saamne Starc khada ha”😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/PBhPvnL2gW
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) October 11, 2025
Rohit focused on fitness and form ahead of ODI comeback from Australia tour
Australia has been a significant portion in Rohit’s journey. It was versus them that India’s 2023 World Cup dreams came to a painful end in the final, despite Rohit’s impressive leadership throughout the competition. Even so, two years later in the 2024 T20 World Cup, Rohit developed redemption by blasting a 92-run masterclass against the similar competitors and leading India to the title.
Now, despite the fact that Shubman Gill has taken over the ODI captaincy, Rohit’s determination has not changed. He continues to prepare with new resolution, focusing strongly on fitness and technical improvement. Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar just shared that Rohit has reduced close to 10 kilograms over the previous several months, displaying his commitment to extending his playing profession.
The following genuine test for him begins on October 19, when India takes on Australia in a three-game ODI series. Even though the series marks his international return, it also represents the following step in showing he still belongs in India’s one-day plans for the long-term. With the 2027 World Cup ready to take place in South Africa, the focus will remain on whether Rohit, who will turn 40 by then, can preserve his health and hunger at the greatest level.
Ranked No. 2 in the ICC ODI batting charts, just behind opening partner Gill, Rohit continues to demonstrate that his batting skill continues to be elite. His pull shots, elegant timing, and leadership instincts still make him one of the most watched figures in world cricket. As fans at Shivaji Park advised him of his uncompleted World Cup mission, Rohit seemed more determined than ever, driven by the crowd’s faith and his own desire for one last shot at ultimate glory.
