Team India batting legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hit the ground running as they went into full-on training mode ahead of the first India vs New Zealand ODI of the three-match series, set to start on January 11 at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sent the internet into a frenzy by posting a video captioned “RoKo reloaded” that showcased the iconic duo preparing for their ODI comeback.

BCCI’s viral ‘RoKo Reloaded’ video

In a video uploaded by the BCCI on X, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were seen training with the rest of the India squad ahead of the NZ ODI series opener. In the video, both Virat and Rohit can be seen batting in the nets, with Virat working on his stylish off-drives and a variety of other shots, while Rohit practices leg-glances and more.

The star Indian duo can also be seen practising catching, performing fielding drills, and running in the video, demonstrating their commitment to peak fitness and match readiness.

The BCCI posted the video with the caption, “RoKo reloaded. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma ready for the INDvNZ ODIs.” The video went viral on social media, being liked more than 10,000 times within the first four hours of being uploaded, reflecting the massive fan following of the two batting greats.

Return of exclusively ODI players

The three-match ODI series against New Zealand will mark the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the Indian team, with both of them now exclusively ODI players after retiring from Test cricket and T20 Internationals.

Virat had secured the ‘Player of the Series’ award against South Africa in December for scoring 302 runs in three matches at an average of 151.00, with two back-to-back centuries and a fifty. His form in the 50-over format has been nothing short of sensational.

Following that, Virat played two Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) matches for Delhi in late December, marking his return to the tournament after 15 years. He scored 131 runs against Andhra Pradesh and 77 against Gujarat, looking fluent as ever and turning back the clock to his prime years with his strokeplay.

Rohit maintains No. 1 ODI ranking

Rohit, the number 1-ranked ODI batter, on the other hand, amassed 146 runs across the Proteas series to hold on to his spot at the top of the rankings. His consistency in the format continues to be a major asset for the Indian team.

Rohit, who also made his VHT comeback, scored 155 against Sikkim before registering a golden duck against Uttarakhand. Despite the one-off failure, his overall form has been encouraging heading into the New Zealand series.

Eye on 2027 ODI World Cup

Both Virat and Rohit will look to continue their fine 50-over form in the NZ series as well to keep themselves in strong contention for the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup next year. With their Test careers now behind them, the two legends are focused on contributing to India’s white-ball success and potentially adding another World Cup to their trophy cabinets.

The series against New Zealand provides the perfect platform for the duo to showcase their form and hunger as they prepare for the T20 World Cup next month and look ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup.