Rohit Sharma Silences Fitness Doubts Before Afghanistan ODIs: ‘Straight Sixes In Nets’ Hint At Big Return

The India national cricket team has received a major boost ahead of its upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, with veteran batter Rohit Sharma showing encouraging signs of fitness during a training session in Mohali.

As India gear up for the three-match ODI series following their dominant victory in the one-off Test, all eyes have been on the fitness of senior players. While injuries have ruled out some key names, Rohit’s latest appearance in the nets has given Indian fans plenty of reasons to smile.

The experienced opener joined the squad at the IS Bindra Stadium and appeared comfortable throughout an extended batting session, indicating that he is fully fit and ready for the challenges ahead.

A Positive Sight For Team India

Reports from the Indian camp suggest that Rohit arrived at training in high spirits and immediately got involved in preparations for the series opener.

Before picking up the bat, he was seen interacting with India’s strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux. The veteran batter also completed light running drills alongside Ishan Kishan as part of his warm-up routine.

The most encouraging sign for the team management was that Rohit completed multiple batting sessions without displaying any signs of discomfort or injury concerns.

For a player who has carried the expectations of Indian cricket for more than a decade, fitness updates often become major talking points ahead of important assignments.

ALSO READ : Suresh Raina’s Big 2027 World Cup Warning: Why India Must Find Hardik Pandya’s Backup Before It’s Too Late

This time, however, the signs were overwhelmingly positive.

A Rusty Start Before Finding His Touch

Like many batters returning to competitive preparation, Rohit did not look at his fluent best immediately.

During the early stages of the net session, he faced challenges against India’s pace bowlers, including Nitish Kumar Reddy, Gurnoor Brar, and Prince Yadav.

A few deliveries beat his outside edge, while some shots failed to find the middle of the bat.

But that initial rustiness did not last long.

As the session progressed, Rohit gradually settled into rhythm and began timing the ball much more confidently. His footwork improved, his shot selection looked sharper, and he appeared increasingly comfortable against both pace and spin.

The veteran opener spent nearly 45 minutes facing fast bowlers before discussing technical aspects of his batting with India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

The Straight Sixes That Caught Everyone’s Attention

One of the standout moments from the practice session came when Rohit switched to the spinners’ nets.

Facing spinner Harsh Dubey, the Indian star produced some of the trademark shots that have made him one of the most feared white-ball batters in world cricket.

Observers noted several cleanly struck straight sixes, a sign that Rohit’s timing and confidence are returning at the right moment.

For Indian supporters, those powerful hits were perhaps the strongest indication yet that the opener is ready to take charge at the top of the order once again.

When Rohit is in full flow, few batters in the game can match his ability to dominate bowling attacks.

India Face Selection Questions After Kohli And Hardik Setbacks

While Rohit’s fitness news has been positive, the same cannot be said for some of India’s other senior stars.

Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the Afghanistan ODI series after reportedly suffering a hamstring injury during the IPL 2026 final.

Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya is also unavailable after sustaining an injury during his rehabilitation process at the Centre of Excellence.

The absence of two experienced players creates significant selection challenges for the team management.

Kohli’s replacement has already been announced, with Yashasvi Jaiswal earning a call-up to the ODI squad.

However, the batting combination remains a topic of discussion.

One possibility is that Jaiswal could open alongside Rohit Sharma, allowing Shubman Gill to move down to the No. 3 position. Another option would be to maintain Gill at the top and fit Jaiswal elsewhere in the batting order.

The final decision is expected to become clearer closer to the opening match.

Can Nitish Kumar Reddy Fill Hardik’s Role?

Hardik Pandya’s absence also leaves a significant gap in India’s balance.

As one of the country’s premier all-rounders, Hardik provides flexibility with both bat and ball, making him difficult to replace.

Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not officially named a replacement, many observers believe Nitish Kumar Reddy could be the leading candidate to fill the all-rounder’s role in the playing XI.

The youngster has impressed selectors with his recent performances and may now receive an opportunity to establish himself at the international level.

A Big Opportunity For Shubman Gill’s India

The Afghanistan series also carries added significance because it represents another important assignment for captain Shubman Gill.

After leading India to a commanding victory in the one-off Test, Gill will now look to continue building momentum in the ODI format.

A series win would strengthen India’s preparations for future international tournaments while giving younger players valuable experience in pressure situations.

For Gill, managing a squad dealing with injuries and selection challenges will be another important test of his leadership credentials.

Rohit’s Presence Could Make The Difference

In a team missing the experience of Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma’s availability becomes even more valuable.

Beyond his batting, Rohit brings leadership, calmness, and a wealth of experience in high-pressure matches.

His ability to anchor an innings or accelerate when required has been one of India’s greatest strengths in limited-overs cricket for many years.

Judging by his latest training session, the veteran appears ready to shoulder that responsibility once again.

And if the straight sixes witnessed in Mohali are any indication, Afghanistan’s bowlers could have a difficult challenge awaiting them in the coming days.