The second ODI against Australia on Thursday offers not just a chance for India to level the series, but for two icons to remind the world that class never fades \u2014 even after time away from the game.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In the rain-hit first ODI, India\u2019s batting rust was evident. Returning to 50-over cricket after more than seven months, Rohit and Kohli struggled to find their rhythm \u2014 the Mumbaikar falling for 8, while India\u2019s fittest cricketer perished for a duck.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In Perth, India limped to 136\/9 in 26 overs \u2014 a target Australia chased down comfortably in just 22 overs \u2014 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It was a comeback that promised much but delivered little. Having last played an ODI during the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, both Rohit and Kohli looked short of match sharpness. For fans, it was an unfamiliar sight \u2014 watching two stalwarts who have defined India\u2019s batting for over a decade fall without a fight.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In Perth, India limped to 136\/9 in 26 overs \u2014 a target Australia chased down comfortably in just 22 overs \u2014 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
For India, this contest is about more than just a series scoreline \u2014 it\u2019s about pride, belief, and timing a comeback right. And for Rohit and Virat, Thursday\u2019s clash could well determine how the next chapter of their storied careers is written.<\/p>\r\n\r\n