India Collapse in Rain-Hit ODI Against Australia
The India vs Australia 1st ODI 2025 turned into a rain-marred contest at Optus Stadium, Perth, where India struggled to 136 for 9 in their 26 overs. With the match reduced due to persistent showers, Australia was handed a revised target of 131 runs. On a damp and overcast day, the Australian pace attack led by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood dismantled India’s batting order, leaving the visitors in deep trouble.
Starc and Hazlewood Dominate Indian Batters
Relentless accuracy from Josh Hazlewood and the movement generated by Mitchell Starc made life difficult for India’s top order. Hazlewood’s exceptional spell of 2 for 20 included 35 dot balls, which applied immense pressure on the Indian batters. Starc also maintained a probing line, creating early breakthroughs that swung momentum Australia’s way. Meanwhile, Matthew Kuhnemann and debutant Mitchell Owen picked up two wickets each to ensure complete control.
India’s Top Order Falters Under Pressure
A highly anticipated return for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ended in disappointment. Rohit managed only 8 runs before edging one to the slips, while Kohli was dismissed for a duck after being caught brilliantly by Cooper Connolly. Shubman Gill, captaining India for the first time in ODIs, showed early promise but fell for 10. Regular interruptions due to rain added to India’s frustration as momentum became difficult to sustain.
After 223 days, both RO-KO return—but fall short, struggling to reach double digits in Perth
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) October 19, 2025
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KL Rahul Fights Amid Falling Wickets
Amid the collapse, KL Rahul offered some resistance with a steady 38 runs, playing smartly against disciplined bowling. Axar Patel tried to counterattack but holed out to Kuhnemann. Later, Nitish Reddy impressed briefly on debut, adding a few quick runs to take India to 136. Despite late efforts, India’s total remained well below par for Perth’s conditions.
Australia in Command After Rain Interruptions
With conditions favoring the seamers, Australia’s bowling attack maintained its dominance throughout. Persistent drizzle, a rare sight in Perth, made batting even tougher. The India vs Australia 1st ODI 2025 marked the first time since 1983 that an ODI in Perth was shortened due to rain. As the match progressed, Australia looked poised to chase down the target comfortably and take an early lead in the series.
