Rohit Sharma (Pic credit: BCCI)

NEW DELHI: India’s star batter and former captain Rohit Sharma set social media abuzz on Sunday with a cryptic post after the conclusion of the three-match ODI series against Australia Down Under. Despite India losing the series 1-2, Rohit clinched both the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards in the final ODI in Sydney, highlighting his undiminished class.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Sharing a striking image of himself entering Sydney’s Airport, Rohit simply wrote: “One last time, signing off from Sydney.” The post has ignited speculation about whether this signals his farewell to playing in Australia or a broader hint about the next phase of his career.

Rohit’s heroic performance in the third ODI was a masterclass. He scored an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, steering India through a challenging 237-run chase, alongside Virat Kohli’s 74 not out in a 168-run unbroken partnership. This innings marked Rohit’s 50th international century — 12 in Tests, 33 in ODIs, and five in T20Is — making him the only batter with five or more centuries across all formats. It was also his 33rd ODI ton, ninth against Australia, and sixth century in Australia as a visitor, equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most hundreds by an Indian against Australia.

Reflecting on the series, Rohit said, “It’s not going to be easy, the bowlers are quality. We couldn’t win the series, but we’ll take a lot of positives. It’s our job now to guide the younger players and pass on the right message.”Rohit’s consistency across the series was evident — 202 runs at an average of 101, including a 73-run knock in Adelaide and a quiet eight at Perth, showcasing his adaptability. He emphasized the importance of mentorship, adding, “Seniors helped us a lot when we started; now it’s our turn to guide the youngsters and stick to the basics.”Both Rohit and Kohli have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, leaving their careers in ODIs as a matter of speculation. Yet, their synergy continues to shine, with Saturday’s innings saving India from a series whitewash.Rohit concluded, “I love playing in Australia — great grounds, great crowd. I hope I continue to do what I do. These memories will always stay with me.”