Indian cricket fans may get an early glimpse of their heroes, as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are tipped to play for India A in the unofficial ODI series against Australia A. The three matches will take place at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium between 30 September and 5 October, following the youth red-ball Tests in Lucknow, whose squad has already been confirmed.

A report in Hindustan Times claimed that Kohli will return from London to join the side, while Rohit, having already completed his fitness tests at the NCA in Bengaluru, is also likely to be included. The opener recently cleared a yo-yo test at the Centre of Excellence. The decision is a part of the build-up to the Australia tour in October, which features three ODIs and five T20Is.

Why the India A games matter

On paper, a game for India A seems like a demotion for two cricketers who have dominated the national side for nearly 15 years.

In reality, the series provides a chance to find rhythm after seven months away from international cricket. These matches will serve as vital preparation before India meet Australia in the limited-overs formats.

Kohli and Rohit’s previous appearance for India A came over decade ago, during the late 2000s and early 2010s, well before they rose to national stardom. Their most recent performance together for India came on 19 February in Dubai, when the Men in Blue defeated New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final under Rohit’s captaincy.