Rohit Sharma will make his appearance for the first time in the ODIs since winning the Champions Trophy in March earlier this year. He will return for the three-match ODI series against Australia but not as a captain, instead as a regular player in the starting XI. It will be an emotional moment for all the fans who have admired Rohit as the Indian captain over the years. The former Indian skipper has started his preparations for the upcoming Australia ODI series. He is focusing more on his fitness and eyeing a spot in India’s long-term ODI plans. Meanwhile, the former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar said the same thing, he feels that Rohit is keen to prove his fitness in the upcoming series. The former coach even compared Rohit’s preparations to those he opted after the 2011 World Cup omission. Bangar also felt that the regular trolling of him for his health also had its effect on his mindset. While speaking to JioStar, Sanjay Bangar said: “The last time Rohit Sharma followed such a strict fitness regimen was after he missed out on the 2011 World Cup. That exclusion left a deep wound in his heart, and I think we’re seeing a similar level of determination from him now. From 2012 to 2024, he’s had a wonderful and successful career, but being called out for his fitness has clearly stayed with him, and he has worked hard to address it.” Also Read: Who saved Rohit Sharma's cricket career? Bangar further expressed his joy of seeing Rohit Sharma back in his hungry form. He further mentioned that players and even captains do not always field in the inner circle and said that Rohit Sharma is absolutely aware of this challenge and is preparing himself for it. He further added: It’s visible in his preparation and his mindset. It’s great to see Rohit Sharma hungry and fit once again. As a captain, you don’t always have the luxury of fielding inside the 30-yard circle; sometimes, you need to patrol the outfield, dive around, and contribute as a fielder, too. Rohit seems to be preparing himself completely for that challenge, and that’s a very positive sign.” The ODI series between India and Australia will commence on Sunday, October 19, in Perth. Along with Rohit, Virat Kohli is also set to appear for the first time in ODIs since March. Fans are eagerly waiting for this series to kick off to see their idols performing against the World Champions.