Rohit Sharma Returns to Training Ground
While Mumbai battled Himachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 match, all eyes turned to the practice nets where former Indian captain Rohit Sharma made a surprise appearance. The veteran batsman was spotted at the Sharad Pawar Bandra-Kurla Complex ground during lunch on Day 1 of the match, engaging in light training sessions.
Training Session Details
On a sunny afternoon, the 38-year-old cricketer arrived at the practice area located behind the main ground. Dressed in a blue shirt and shorts with a black cap, Sharma was observed doing light sprints just outside the nets. The session took place while Mumbai's bowling coach Dhawal Kulkarni and other coaching staff worked with reserve bowlers nearby.
Notably absent from Saturday's session was Abhishek Nayar, with whom Sharma has been training regularly in recent times. The Indian star's presence at the domestic match venue sparked excitement among cricket enthusiasts as they await his return to international cricket.
Upcoming International Commitments
The former India captain is scheduled to return to competitive cricket during the three-match ODI series against South Africa, beginning in Ranchi on November 30. This marks his next anticipated appearance in national colors following his outstanding performance against Australia.
Sharma's last international outing was nothing short of spectacular - he scored an unbeaten 121 runs against Australia in the third ODI at Sydney. This magnificent century helped India chase down Australia's target of 237 with nine wickets remaining and more than 11 overs to spare.
Recent Career Highlights
The Australian tour represented Sharma's first series for India since the Champions Trophy victory in March, where India emerged triumphant by defeating New Zealand in the final. The right-handed batsman earned the Player of the Match award in the championship clash for his crucial 76 runs off 83 balls, which paved the way for India's successful chase of 252 runs.
Sharma's domestic cricket appearances have been limited recently. His last first-class match for Mumbai was against Jammu & Kashmir in January, before he announced his retirement from Test cricket in May. Following India's triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, where he led the team to victory, Sharma announced his retirement from T20 Internationals.
A significant transition occurred ahead of the ODI series against Australia when Shubman Gill replaced him as the 50-over captain, despite Sharma having led India to the Champions Trophy title in March. The 38-year-old joins an elite group of Indian captains, becoming only the second after MS Dhoni to win two ICC trophies during his leadership tenure.
