India is gearing up to face Australia in the first ODI match at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, marking a significant moment for the Indian cricket team. Under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill, the squad will witness the return of two distinguished players, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who haven’t represented India since March 2025.
Unfortunately, the team will be missing key players Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya for this three-match ODI series. Hardik is sidelined due to injury, while Bumrah has been rested but is expected to return for the T20I series against Australia.
Shubman Gill is predicted to open the innings alongside Rohit Sharma, with Virat Kohli occupying the No. 3 spot. Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is likely to bat at No. 4, followed by Nitish Kumar Reddy, who will step into the all-rounder role in the absence of Hardik Pandya. After missing two Test matches against England due to injury, Reddy has a prime opportunity to showcase his skills and solidify his place in the squad.
India also has Axar Patel as an all-rounder, with Harshit Rana slotted in at No. 7. Besides his bowling capabilities, Harshit is anticipated to add stability to the lower middle-order batting lineup.
In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav is expected to be India’s only specialist spinner, while Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack. The final bowling position is still being debated, with either Arshdeep Singh or Prasidh Krishna set to claim the spot.
The predicted XI for India’s first ODI against Australia is as follows: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, and either Arshdeep Singh or Prasidh Krishna. This match promises to be a thrilling contest as India looks to make a strong statement against a formidable Australian side.