Team India's comeback to ODI cricket after seven months failed to click. On a Perth pitch that was hard and bouncy, India's batting was exposed, and rain interruptions added to the misery. Australia clinched a seven-wicket victory under the DLS system, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, appearing for the first time in an ODI since June, were unable to leave a mark as India could muster only 136/9 in a rain-affected 26-over innings. Though there was late resistance from KL Rahul, Axar Patel, and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy, the score never seemed enough. With attention now on Adelaide, here are four key takeaways from the first ODI.
5 Key Takeaways for India After the Defeat in 1st ODI vs AUS
Kuldeep Yadav's Exclusion Causes Eyebrows
Gautam Gambhir's tactic to select all-rounders ahead of specialist bowlers was put in the limelight. India's best spinner over the last few months, Kuldeep Yadav, was omitted in place of Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
The move boomeranged, as India did not have wicket-taking bowling in the middle overs. Even Perth's quick conditions failed to affect India, as Australia's Matthew Kuhnemann showed spin could still pay dividends. With Kuldeep sure to get more assistance in Adelaide, his return might add potency to India's bowling attack.
Also Read | Why India Dropped Kuldeep Yadav for 1st ODI vs Australia in Perth
Veteran Pair Rohit and Kohli Require Time to Find Rhythm
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli fared poorly in their return match. Rohit scored 8 off 14, while Kohli was bowled for a duck. The duo had last played a competitive match in June, and rust was palpable in their footwork and timing.
While their form at the Champions Trophy was excellent, it’s clear they may need time to adjust to the Australian conditions. With Adelaide being one of Kohli’s favorite grounds, fans will hope for a turnaround.
Shreyas Iyer’s Short-Ball Struggles Return
Shreyas Iyer's Achilles heel against short balls has again come back to haunt him. Although he has practiced against it during IPL 2025, he was uncomfortable once more. Josh Hazlewood got him out with a rising ball, extending his spell of dominance over Iyer.
In order to consolidate India's middle order, Iyer must learn how to negate pace and bounce, particularly in Australian conditions.
Nitish Kumar Reddy's Bright Debut
Nitish Kumar Reddy displayed encouraging glimpses as a fast-bowling all-rounder. His 19* from 11 balls provided some respectability to India's score. Although his bowling is still learning, his batting technique and confidence impressed.
The management needs to think about promoting him higher up the order since his potential as a batting all-rounder could provide greater balance to the side.
Also Read | Virat Kohli Eyes Massive ODI Record vs Australia After Perth Setback
Absence of Prasidh Krishna on Bouncy Tracks
Team India went with three pacers - Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana - in the first ODI, which is an ideal combination when playing down under. However, it is crucial for a side to include pacer who can utilize the conditions and bring out the best.
Prasidh Krishna is known for his ability to bowl with rapid pace and controlled bounce. His inclusion in the first ODI would have been a plus for India as the surface at Optus Stadium offered bounce which troubled the batters. If Prasidh would have been in the side, he could have contributed in a better way.
Looking Ahead to Adelaide
India now meet Australia in the second ODI at Adelaide Oval on October 23. The game provides an opportunity for India to bounce back and correct their tactical errors. There are sure to be changes to the playing XI, with Kuldeep Yadav set to play and the senior batters looking to make a point.
