WATCH: Gautam Gambhir shares a light-hearted banter with Rohit Sharma for his crucial knock against Australia in 2nd ODI

In a light-hearted moment during India’s second ODI against Australia in Adelaide, former India captain Gautam Gambhir brought a smile to fans and teammates alike with a humorous remark directed at Rohit Sharma. The incident occurred shortly after Rohit’s gritty innings of 73 runs, which helped India post a competitive total despite challenging pitch conditions. The amusing interaction was captured in a viral video that quickly gained popularity on social media, illustrating the camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere within the Indian dressing room.

Rohit Sharma’s resilient innings

As Rohit reached the crease, he faced one of the toughest pitches in Adelaide, where Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Xavier Bartlett exploited the conditions with movement and bounce. Rohit’s innings was marked by patience and strategic shot selection, as he scored 73 off 97 balls, marking his slowest ODI fifty since 2015 but demonstrating resilience under pressure. His partnership with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer yielded a vital 118-run stand, stabilizing India’s innings after a shaky start following early dismissals of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli.

Despite Rohit’s disciplined approach, his innings ended in the 30th over when Starc’s short delivery forced a mistimed shot. Nevertheless, his performance was celebrated as a significant milestone—making Rohit the first Indian to score 1,000 ODI runs against Australia on their home soil. The innings showcased his ability to adapt to difficult conditions, fueling confidence ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, where he aims to continue his impactful career.

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Gautam Gambhir’s playful banter with Rohit and the retirement rumours

The viral clip shows Gambhir teasing Rohit by saying, “Rohit, sabko lag raha tha ki aaj farewell match tha, ek photo to lagaa do.” The gesture was received with laughter and fondness, especially amid ongoing speculation about Rohit’s future in ODIs and whether he might retire soon. The veteran opener has recently been linked with discussions surrounding his career longevity, considering his age and recent squad adjustments.

While Rohit’s performance in Adelaide silenced some critics, the playful exchange between Gambhir and Rohit epitomized the positivity prevalent within the team. Gambhir’s humorous remark, coupled with Rohit’s determined innings, underscored the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect amid the high-pressure environment of international cricket.