AUS v IND 2025: WATCH- “They both are going until 2027”- Travis Head on Rohit and Kohli, smiles sheepishly at Axar Patel

The first ODI will be played on October 19 in Perth.

Australia opener Travis Head was asked about whether the upcoming ODI series against India was the farewell for Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and his answer brought a smile not only to his face but also to all-rounder Axar Patel’s face as well.

Rohit and Kohli will return to international cricket with the Australia ODI series, since they last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tournament. They have retired from T20Is and Tests and last played any competitive cricket in IPL 2025. India will also be captained by Shubman Gill, replacing Rohit Sharma at the helm.

The series opener will take place against the backdrop of ongoing speculation over the duo's future and whether they will compete in the 2027 World Cup.

Two days before the first ODI at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia's Travis Head and India's Axar Patel addressed the media, and the former praised Rohit and Virat. However, things took an unexpected turn when Head began to stare sheepishly at Axar as he discussed the possibility of Rohit and Kohli playing until the 2027 World Cup.

“They have been awesome for India; I guess Axar can speak more highly about them than myself. But two quality players, two of the best white-ball players. Virat is probably the greatest white-ball player. Rohit is not that far behind,” Head told reporters.

“Someone who opens the batting. I have huge regard for what Rohit has been able to do. I am sure they will be missed at some stage, but I think they both are going until 2027 (looks at Axar Patel and the all-rounder smiles). They both are trying to get to the World Cup. It is great for the game that they are still playing,” he added.

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Axar Patel, who will replace Ravindra Jadeja as the playing XI's premier all-rounder, said Rohit and Virat are both consummate professionals who are eager to start the series.

“They are world-class players. They know what to do, and they are ready to go. They are professionals, and they know what to do. They are ready to go. If you speak about their form, they have been preparing well; hence, I think they are ready. Everyone has given their fitness test; they are raring to go now,” Axar said.

The first ODI between Australia and India will be played in Perth on October 19.