Photo via CricTracker

'That is going to remain a challenge' – Deep Dasgupta on Kohli and Rohit ahead of New Zealand ODI series

India’s five-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland, puts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma under the microscope as they navigate their exclusive focus on limited-overs cricket. Both players, who retired from Test matches two years ago, now face the challenge of maintaining peak form despite irregular ODI schedules, with gaps of up to two months between series.

Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta noted that while the transition from multi-format cricket has been difficult—particularly in the first year—the duo has since refined their preparation methods to ensure sharpness from the opening game. Dasgupta also flagged Eden Park’s expansive square boundaries as a tactical hurdle for Rohit, whose aggressive strokeplay thrives against short-pitched bowling but may struggle against New Zealand’s pace attack in a ground favoring wider shots.

Up nextCricket· 2h ago

IND vs NZ Live Score 1st ODI: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in focus as series gets underway