India endured a disappointing batting display within the opening ODI against Australia in Perth on Sunday, as their top order did not make a meaningful impact within the rain-affected encounter. The scoreboard told the story — Rohit Sharma (8), Shubman Gill (10), Virat Kohli (0), and Shreyas Iyer (11) all fell cheaply, leaving India struggling for stability.
Despite the anticipation surrounding Rohit and Kohli’s return to international cricket, each stalwarts couldn’t convert their starts into notable contributions. Their early dismissals set the tone for India’s underwhelming total of 136 for nine within the 26-over-a-side match, which was repeatedly interrupted by rain.
Australia, electing to bowl first under overcast skies, made full use of the conditions and extracted sharp bounce from the Optus Stadium pitch. The mixture of movement and additional lift proved an excessive amount of for India’s batters, exposing technical flaws early within the innings.
Iyer’s Dismissal Raises Questions
Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal particularly caught attention, because the right-hander, who was pivotal in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, once more fell to a short-pitched delivery. Facing Josh Hazlewood within the 14th over, Iyer tried to glance a rising ball but was cramped for room because of the steep bounce. The ball grazed his glove, allowing wicketkeeper Josh Philippe to take a pointy catch.
— Nihari Korma (@NihariVsKorma) October 19, 2025
Iyer’s repeated struggles against bounce and pace have grow to be a priority, especially given his importance at No. 4. His soft dismissal sparked a visual response from head coach Gautam Gambhir, who appeared frustrated within the dugout. Cameras captured Gambhir discussing the mode of dismissal intensely with the assistant coach — a moment that quickly went viral online. Fans interpreted it as a mirrored image of Gambhir’s dissatisfaction with India’s inability to adapt to Australian conditions.
Veterans Struggle, Rahul Stands Tall
The much-hyped comeback of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli became a short-lived affair, lasting just 22 balls combined. Rohit’s familiar weakness outside the off-stump was once more exposed by Mitchell Starc, while Kohli’s try and drive on the up resulted in a pointy catch by Cooper Connolly — marking his first-ever duck in Australia.
KL Rahul (38 off 30) was the lone vibrant spot in India’s innings, briefly reviving hopes with some elegant stroke play. Nevertheless, the shortage of support from the highest order and frequent rain interruptions meant India never found rhythm. The veterans will now look to redeem themselves within the upcoming ODIs in Adelaide and Sydney.
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