Senior stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hit the ground running soon after their arrival here and spent a considerable time in the nets during the Indian team's first training session ahead of the ODI series against Australia beginning here on Sunday.
All eyes are on Rohit and Kohli, who last played for India in the Champions Trophy in February-March, and are available only in the 50-over format.
Both the former India captains batted for close to 30 minutes in the nets. The Indian team arrived here in two batches over Wednesday and Thursday for the white-ball tour comprising three ODIs and five T20s, starting October 29.
Rohit was also seen having a long chat with head coach Gautam Gambhir after his time in the nets. Both Kohli and Rohit retired from Tests earlier this year and had called time on their India T20 career after winning the World Cup in Barbados last year.
It could well be the last time that the two ODI greats play Down Under. Their participation in the 2027 World Cup is also not a given with a lot depending on their form and fitness at the time. However, new captain Shubman Gill has backed the two superstars, given their wealth of experience.
After the net session, Kohli was seen having a chat with bowling coach Morne Morkel, which was followed by a light moment with pacer Arshdeep Singh. The team also has a training session lined up on Friday and Saturday.
Camaraderie in full play
There were jolly moments as Team India gathered ahead of their departure to Australia for the upcoming white-ball series. The newly-appointed ODI captain, Shubman Gill, was spotted sharing a warm hug with former skipper Rohit Sharma, a gesture that reflected mutual respect despite the change in leadership.
Shubman Gill was seen sharing a laugh with Virat Kohli and warmly clasping hands with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer. The players shared warm camaraderie inside the team bus. The mood within the camp appeared relaxed yet focused as the players prepared to take on Australia in a series that marks a fresh chapter for Indian cricket.
Also read: Rohit, Kohli may not play 2027 World Cup: Gavaskar
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