Rohit Sharma's return to India's ODI setup for the upcoming Australia series has come with renewed buzz - and a noticeably fitter frame. The 38-year-old opener, who has not played since the IPL earlier this year, has reportedly shed close to 20 kilos.
For a player long celebrated for his effortless timing but occasionally questioned for his fitness, this transformation has drawn attention just as India prepare for the three-match ODI series starting October 19.
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Sanjay Bangar praises Rohit Sharma's fitness transformation ahead of India’s Australia ODIs
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes the criticism surrounding Rohit's fitness became the very fuel that reignited his focus. Speaking on Amul Cricket Live, as reported by Hindustan Times, Bangar drew a striking parallel to Rohit's early-career struggles.
“The last time Rohit Sharma followed such a strict fitness regimen was after he missed out on the 2011 World Cup. That exclusion left a deep wound in his heart, and I think we are seeing a similar level of determination from him now,” Bangar said.
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Bangar added that Rohit's renewed energy is evident in how he trains and prepares for games, calling it “great to see him hungry and fit once again.”
Rohit's ODI focus and determination ahead of Australia tour
Having retired from Tests and lost the ODI captaincy, Rohit now has just one format left for his international career. But the numbers still back his place.
Since 2023, he has scored 1,714 runs in 37 innings at an average of nearly 49 and a strike rate of 117.
“Being called out for his fitness has clearly stayed with him, and he has worked hard to address it. It's visible in his mindset,” he added.
Rohit's record Down Under only strengthens the case for his inclusion. Across 30 ODI innings in Australia, he has scored 1,328 runs at an average of 53.12, including five centuries.
With a leaner physique and something to prove, the veteran opener looks set to silence his critics once again when the series begins in Perth.