ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India still missing the RO-KO factor

India has taken a 1-0 lead in the ongoing three-match ODI series against England, but the form of two of their star players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, continues to raise concerns. Rohit Sharma, despite his immense talent, failed to make a significant impact with the bat in the first ODI in Nagpur, which left many questioning his current form. This inconsistency is not ideal for a player of his caliber, especially with the high stakes of the upcoming Champions Trophy. On the other hand, Kohli’s fitness issues ahead of the series have been a major talking point. The star batter was sidelined for the first ODI due to a knee concern, which added to the growing uncertainty about his readiness for the rest of the series.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are vital for India's chances to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title

The absence of Kohli from the first game placed additional pressure on the team, especially with his consistency being one of the pillars of India’s batting lineup in recent years. However, the Indian team still managed to take the lead in the series, showing their depth and resilience. While they will be pleased with the win, the form of their top players, especially Kohli and Rohit, remains an area of focus as they aim to fine-tune their squad ahead of the prestigious Champions Trophy.

Rohit Sharma’s recent form has been a cause for concern, with his underwhelming performances continuing in the ongoing series. The India skipper struggled once again in the VCA, getting dismissed for a mere two runs by Saqib Mahmood. This lean patch has prompted several experts to emphasize the importance of Rohit finding his form before the ICC Champions Trophy. Given his crucial role in the Indian team, especially in the big tournaments, the pressure is mounting on him to rediscover his rhythm with the bat.

One such expert, former India cricketer and 2011 World Cup winner Suresh Raina, shared his perspective on the situation. Raina believes that once Rohit Sharma starts scoring runs, the fans will witness a significant shift in his approach, especially compared to the aggressive style seen during the 2024 T20 World Cup. According to Raina, Rohit’s calm and composed nature will return once he gets back into form, bringing stability to the Indian batting lineup. His ability to adapt and lead from the front will be crucial for India’s chances in the Champions Trophy. Raina also mentioned that it’s a matter of time before Rohit starts finding his rhythm, and when that happens, his leadership and impact on the team will be more evident.

“I think this wicket would have been a good one for Rohit Sharma’s comeback had he applied himself a bit more. Now, the team will move to Cuttack, where he could also perform well. If he finds form before the Champions Trophy, then we’ll see a different kind of captain and a different kind of approach from him,” stated former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina in a recent interview. 

Virat Kohli’s absence from the first ODI due to a knee injury created quite a buzz, as it was a rare occasion where the former India captain missed an international game. His absence highlighted the importance of Kohli’s fitness, particularly with key tournaments like the Champions Trophy on the horizon. Suresh Raina, in his analysis, also touched upon this factor, emphasizing how crucial it is for Kohli to remain fit and available for the remainder of the series.

Raina pointed out that having the top three – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli – in form and at the top of their game is vital for India’s success in the ongoing series and in the future. Kohli’s presence in the top order provides the much-needed stability and experience, and it is imperative for the Indian team that he regains his fitness quickly. Raina stressed the need for all the senior players to be in peak condition, especially in the lead-up to major events like the Champions Trophy. As the series progresses, India will rely heavily on their top-order strength, with Kohli playing a pivotal role in setting up the innings and guiding the team through tough situations.

“That’s why the question of whether Virat Kohli will be fit in time is crucial, because having the top three play together in these two matches before the big tournament is very important," Raina added.