India had a disappointing first ODI against Australia at Perth, falling behind 1-0 in the series. In a rain-affected clash, India managed to post a total of 136/9, and their bowlers struggled to defend the revised target.
Updated: October 20, 2025 8:56 AM IST
New Delhi: India are under increasing pressure after a disappointing defeat in the first ODI against Australia at Perth’s Optus Stadium. What was expected to be a celebratory comeback for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ended with India falling behind 1-0 in the series.
Australia won the toss and opted to field first. In the rain-affected match, the Indian batting lineup struggled to adapt to the difficult conditions as they managed to post a total of 136/9 in their allocated 26 overs, with the target being reduced to 131 for Australia through Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method (DLS).
Rohit and Kohli struggled with the bat
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli struggled with the bat at the crease as they scored just 8 off 14 balls and 0 off 8 balls respectively.
Talking about the bowling department, Arshdeep Singh picked an early wicket as he removed Travis Head. However, Australia chased down the target comfortably, winning by seven wickets with 29 balls to spare.
Harshit Rana faced severe backlash from the fans
The Indian bowling attack struggled throughout, with Harshit Rana facing especially severe backlash from fans online. His selection for the series has sparked debate, with some claiming it was influenced by his connection to coach Gautam Gambhir.
Rana went wicketless in his four-over spell, giving away 27 runs. This result has heightened the scrutiny over his selection and ability to perform at the international level.
Harshit Rana needs to prove his worth
The Indian team must quickly regroup as they gear up for the second match of the three-game series, set to be played in Adelaide on October 23. The pressure will be especially high on Harshit Rana, who needs to justify his selection. Another defeat in the next match could leave India struggling to stay in contention for the series.
The rain-affected first ODI match made the contest even more challenging and the team’s overall performance has sparked concerns about their ability to adapt in difficult conditions.
India will look to deliver a strong performance in second ODI
India’s batting collapse in the rain-affected match, alongside their bowlers failure to defend a modest total, has raised numerous questions for the team management. The comeback of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli was anticipated to bolster the side, but their early dismissals added to India’s challenges in the game.
The next match in Adelaide offers India a chance to rectify these issues and even the series. Emphasis will be on improvements both individually and as a team. Australia’s dominant chase has increased the pressure on India to deliver a strong performance in the second ODI.
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