Ravi Shastri Mocks Virat Kohli With ‘Two Ducks’ Comment at SCG

Ravi Shastri teased Virat Kohli after his twin ducks in the series but applauded his strong comeback alongside Rohit Sharma in Sydney.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri took a humorous dig at star batter Virat Kohli after he recorded two consecutive ducks in the opening ODIs of the three-match series against Australia. However, Kohli made a strong comeback with a fluent 74* in the final ODI, helping India secure a nine-wicket victory in Sydney despite the series already being decided.

After Harshit Rana and the Indian bowlers restricted Australia to a modest 236, the chase turned into a masterclass from the experienced pair. Rohit Sharma (121 not out) and Virat Kohli (74 not out) combined for a 168-run stand off just 170 deliveries for the second wicket, guiding India to 237/1 in the 39th over.

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Shastri Trolls Kohli

Though Australia clinched the series 2-1, Rohit and Kohli gave the Sydney crowd exactly what they came to see—an exhibition of class and composure from two of India’s modern greats. Their partnership spared India from a whitewash and reminded fans why the “Ro-Ko” duo remains unmatched in ODIs.

“You two old dogs still have a sting in the tail,” Shastri began his banter with a grin, teasing the pair for their vintage show. Rohit responded with a smile before Shastri turned his humour towards Kohli.

“Here are the two ducks out of the pond,” joked Shastri, referring to Kohli’s previous dismissals for nought.

Kohli, visibly relieved after returning to form, laughed off the remark and said, “Good to be out of the pond, honestly. Well, you know, I kind of lost… You’ve scored so many runs in international cricket, but then the game shows you everything, even at this stage, almost 37 in not many days and still you can feel like you don’t know how to get a run.”

India Win Under Rohit’s Guidance

Rohit, meanwhile, looked in complete control throughout his innings. After Shubman Gill fell for 24 following a 69-run opening stand, Rohit took charge with a display of effortless timing and placement.

The Indian skipper’s knock was marked by fluency and confidence, starting with a couple of elegant drives and flicks off Mitchell Starc before dominating once spinner Adam Zampa came into the attack. The right-hander’s unbeaten 121 was his 33rd ODI hundred, adding another memorable chapter to his rich legacy.

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While Kohli’s innings reflected determination, Rohit’s was pure artistry. Together, they reminded fans that experience and class remain India’s most potent weapons in world cricket.