The ODI series against South Africa began with many questioning the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma — especially given the new BCCI mandate requiring domestic cricket for selection.
But by the end of the three-match series, smiles and camaraderie in the Indian camp told a different story altogether.
On arrival at the team hotel, a light-hearted moment captured the atmosphere: as the squad cut a cake to celebrate their victory, young Yashasvi Jaiswal offered a piece to Kohli, who promptly insisted the first bite go to Rohit.
Rohit’s joking response, “Mai mota ho jayuga ye khake (I’ll get fat after eating this),” cracked up everyone — a simple moment but emblematic of the harmony and renewed confidence in the team.
Despite the uncertainty at the start — with some even wondering if the senior duo still belonged in the ODI setup — both Rohit and Kohli made powerful statements.
Kohli emerged as Player of the Series, piling up 302 runs, including two centuries and a fifty, while Rohit contributed with two fluent fifties.
Meanwhile, the series also announced new contenders. Young talents like Jaiswal — who smashed a brilliant unbeaten 116 in the final match — and Ruturaj Gaikwad — who made a classy century batting out of position — impressed all and gave the team a much-needed injection of fresh energy.
After the series-clinching nine-wicket win in Visakhapatnam, head coach Gautam Gambhir backed the blending of experience and youth:
“They are world-class players and their experience is important in the dressing room.”
He added that while Rohit and Kohli remain vital for India’s 50-over future, youngsters like Jaiswal and Gaikwad must be nurtured through opportunities.
Gambhir’s message underlined the long game — the next 50-over World Cup is two years away, and building a deep squad of 20–25 players with a mix of proven match-winners and emerging stars is the plan.
As fans exit stadiums — from Ranchi to Raipur to Vizag — many shared the same feeling: Indian cricket seems to have rediscovered its winning rhythm, balancing respect for legendary veterans with hope for a bright new generation.
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