India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill for their strong start in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney on October 25, 2025. He also highlighted the unbeaten partnership between Rohit and Virat Kohli that sealed a nine-wicket victory for India, chasing down 237 runs with ease.
Gambhir’s Dressing Room Speech Highlights Key Partnerships
Gambhir spoke to the team after the match, focusing on the batting efforts that led to the win. He called the 69-run opening stand between Rohit and Gill very important for building momentum in the chase.
The coach then turned to the 168-run second-wicket partnership between Rohit and Kohli, describing it as outstanding. Both players stayed not out, with Rohit scoring 121 and Kohli making 74, finishing the game clinically.
Gambhir stressed how these partnerships showed the team’s ability to chase targets effectively. He noted that such performances boost confidence ahead of future series.
Rohit and Kohli Shine in Crucial Victory
Rohit returned to form with a century, his first in ODIs since early 2025, proving his value despite recent criticism. This knock came after a gritty 73 in the second ODI, where India lost but Rohit silenced doubters.
Kohli supported with a fluent half-century, marking a return to his best after a lean patch in recent months. Their partnership was the first century stand between them in ODIs in over five years, exciting fans worldwide.
India’s win in the third ODI avoided a whitewash in the series, which Australia won 2-1. The victory provided a positive end to the tour, with young captain Shubman Gill leading the side well.
Gill’s Role and Praise for Seniors
As stand-in captain, Gill praised Rohit and Kohli in his post-match comments, calling their batting a delight to watch. He highlighted how their experience guided the team to a near-perfect game.
Gill himself contributed with a quick 32 in the opening stand with Rohit, setting a solid foundation. His leadership in the series, including tactical decisions, drew positive reviews from experts.
Here are key stats from the match:
- Rohit Sharma: 121 not out (off 128 balls, 7 fours, 4 sixes)
- Virat Kohli: 74 not out (off 82 balls, 6 fours, 1 six)
- Shubman Gill: 32 (off 38 balls, 3 fours)
Implications for India’s Future ODI Plans
This series marked a potential farewell for Rohit and Kohli in Australia, as both are in the later stages of their careers. Rohit admitted post-match that it might be their last tour Down Under, shifting focus to home series against South Africa starting in November 2025.
Gambhir’s coaching era emphasizes blending youth with experience, as seen with players like Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. The win boosts morale before the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December 2025.
| Player | Runs in Series | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 194 | Player of the Series, century in 3rd ODI |
| Virat Kohli | 124 | Unbeaten 74 in 3rd ODI |
| Shubman Gill | 89 | Captained India to win in final game |
Fan Reactions and Broader Context
Fans on social media celebrated the Ro-Ko partnership, with many posts highlighting its emotional impact. This comes amid discussions on India’s white-ball future, especially after a 3-0 Test loss to New Zealand at home earlier in October 2025.
Gambhir’s humorous chat with Rohit about a “farewell match” went viral, adding light-hearted moments to the tour. Such interactions show strong team bonds under his leadership.
The series also tested India’s bench strength, with absences like KL Rahul and Axar Patel in some games. Moving forward, selectors will monitor fitness for the Champions Trophy in 2026.
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