The upcoming ODI series between India and Australia promises to be more than just a battle for supremacy in limited-overs cricket. It marks a historic moment in the illustrious career of Rohit Sharma, one of the most successful Indian batters of the modern era. After a gap of over seven months since his last international outing in the Champions Trophy, Rohit will finally return to the field on October 19, 2025, in Perth for the first of three ODIs against Australia.

This return is not just about India’s batting stalwart resuming action. It is also about records, milestones, and the chance to etch his name in the history books once again. Rohit Sharma stands at the cusp of achieving a feat that no other Indian, including legends like Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, has managed before—scoring 1000 runs against Australia in their own backyard.

Rohit Sharma set to create history in Australia

Rohit Sharma has been one of the most consistent performers for India against Australia, especially on their home soil. In 19 innings played in Australia against the hosts, Rohit has amassed 990 runs at an average of 58.23, which includes four centuries and two fifties.

This incredible record puts him just 10 runs short of the 1000-run milestone, which, surprisingly, no Indian batter has achieved before. Even batting greats like Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Rahul Dravid have not managed to cross this landmark despite their long and successful careers.

Should Rohit score those 10 runs on Sunday, he will become the first Indian cricketer to score 1000 runs against Australia in Australia, a testimony to his adaptability, skill, and temperament on foreign pitches.

Virat Kohli’s pursuit of the same milestone

While Rohit stands at the brink of this landmark, Virat Kohli is also in contention, though his task is more difficult. Kohli currently has 802 runs in 18 innings against Australia in Australia, with an average of 47.17, including three centuries and four half-centuries. To reach 1000 runs, Kohli will need at least 198 runs in the upcoming three-match series, which requires him to be at his absolute best.

Kohli’s consistency and hunger for runs make him a serious contender, but the pressure will be on Rohit, who has a golden chance to get there first and set an all-time record for Indian cricket.

Most runs for India vs Australia in Australia (before the 2025 ODI series)

• Rohit Sharma – 990 runs

• Virat Kohli – 802 runs

• Sachin Tendulkar – 740 runs

• MS Dhoni – 684 runs

• Shikhar Dhawan – 517 runs

This list highlights Rohit’s dominance in Australia, where he has consistently delivered match-winning performances for India over the years.

Rohit Sharma’s 500th international match – A monumental achievement

Apart from the runs milestone, Rohit Sharma will also achieve another historic feat in Perth—he will be playing his 500th international match for India. This makes him only the fifth Indian cricketer to reach the milestone, joining the legendary company of:

• Sachin Tendulkar – 664 matches

• Virat Kohli – 550 matches (as of 2025)

• MS Dhoni – 535 matches

• Rahul Dravid – 504 matches

Rohit will walk into the field knowing he is on the verge of becoming a part of an elite club of Indian cricket legends. His career, spanning over 18 years, has been decorated with numerous accolades, including being the only player in world cricket with three double centuries in ODIs and holding the record for the highest individual score in ODIs (264 runs).

The significance of his comeback

Rohit’s return to action also comes at a time when India is preparing for crucial tournaments. With Shubman Gill taking over ODI captaincy for the first time, Rohit will play a different role—providing experience, guidance, and the much-needed balance at the top of the order. Without the responsibility of captaincy, fans and experts alike believe that Rohit can once again play freely and unleash his destructive batting style, which has often left bowlers helpless.

Rohit Sharma vs Virat Kohli in Australia – A comparison

The comparison between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is inevitable, especially when it comes to performances in challenging overseas conditions. While Kohli has long been regarded as one of the best chasers and most consistent run-getters for India, Rohit’s dominance in Australia is hard to ignore.

• Rohit Sharma: 990 runs, average 58.23, 4 centuries, 2 fifties

• Virat Kohli: 802 runs, average 47.17, 3 centuries, 4 fifties

These stats suggest that while both have been exceptional, Rohit has shown a knack for big innings against the Australians, often scoring centuries that set up victories for India.

Legacy and future

As Rohit Sharma prepares to mark his 500th international game, his journey is already being celebrated as one of the greatest in Indian cricket. From his initial years of inconsistency to becoming one of the most destructive openers in the world, Rohit’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.

Crossing 1000 runs against Australia in Australia will only cement his place further as one of India’s finest overseas performers. With younger players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad now emerging, Rohit’s role will be to guide the next generation while continuing to add milestones to his already glittering career.

Conclusion

The India vs Australia ODI series in October 2025 is more than just another bilateral contest. It carries a historic context for Indian cricket, as Rohit Sharma stands on the cusp of achieving two rare feats—becoming the first Indian to score 1000 runs against Australia in Australia and playing his 500th international match.

While the series will test India under Shubman Gill’s new leadership, all eyes will be on Rohit as he chases milestones that even the likes of Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar could not achieve. Whether he gets there in the first ODI itself or later in the series, the achievement will be a proud moment for Indian cricket fans worldwide.

Join our Telegram Channel for Latest News and Regular Updates.

Start your Mutual Fund Journey  by Opening Free Account in Asset Plus.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.