The India vs Australia ODI series is set to begin on October 19, 2025, in Perth, marking the start of Shubman Gill's ODI captaincy and potentially the final ODI series in Australia for veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Series Overview
The three-match series will see India, led by the young Shubman Gill, face off against Australia in Perth (October 19), Adelaide (October 23), and Sydney (October 25). This series is significant as it marks a transition in Indian cricket leadership, with Gill taking over the ODI captaincy from Rohit Sharma. Shreyas Iyer has been named as Gill's deputy for the series.
Kohli and Rohit: A Possible Farewell?
Speculation is rife that this series could be the last time Australian fans see Kohli and Rohit in action. Both players have retired from T20Is and Rohit has retired from Tests, focusing solely on ODIs. With the next ODI tour to Australia not scheduled until 2027, this series could be a "farewell that brings tears," as urged by 1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal. Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has acknowledged the significant impact Kohli and Rohit have on the field, energizing both players and fans.
Team Composition and Strategy
The return of Kohli and Rohit after a seven-month absence since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025 is a major talking point. Their experience is expected to guide the younger players under Gill's leadership. India will be without Jasprit Bumrah, who is being rested for the ODI series but will return for the T20Is, and Hardik Pandya, who is out due to injury. The pace attack will likely be led by Mohammed Siraj, with competition between Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna for the final spot. Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel are expected to handle the spin duties.
India's predicted XI for the first ODI includes Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, and either Arshdeep Singh or Prasidh Krishna. Nitish Kumar Reddy is set to receive his maiden ODI cap as an all-rounder.
Australia's Squad and Challenges
Australia will be led by Mitchell Marsh. The team has faced setbacks with Cameron Green ruled out due to side soreness and replaced by Marnus Labuschagne. Additionally, Josh Inglis and Adam Zampa will miss the first ODI; Matthew Kuhnemann and Josh Philippe have been named as replacements. Several test regulars, including Travis Head, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, are expected to use the ODI series as preparation for the upcoming Ashes series. Matt Renshaw and Mitch Owen are set to make their ODI debuts.
Head-to-Head Record
India and Australia have a rich history in ODIs, having played 152 matches against each other. Australia has the upper hand with 84 wins, while India has secured 58 victories; 10 matches ended with no result. The last time these two teams met in the 50-over format, India defeated Australia by four wickets in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final.
Where to Watch
The India vs Australia ODI series will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network in India. Live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website. The first ODI is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM IST.
