The Indian men’s cricket team has touched down in Australia for the much-anticipated three-match ODI series, with the opener set to be played at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, October 19. The series marks a significant occasion for Shubman Gill, who will make his ODI captaincy debut against the six-time World Cup champions.
Ahead of the first clash, former India opener Aakash Chopra revealed his predicted India XI — a lineup that has already sparked debate among fans. Chopra’s XI features two spin-bowling all-rounders, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, but surprisingly omits Kuldeep Yadav, who has been India’s most consistent wicket-taker in recent months.
Kuldeep, currently in stellar form, bagged 17 wickets in seven matches during the Asia Cup 2025 and followed it up with 12 scalps in two Tests against the West Indies. Despite these outstanding performances, Chopra preferred balance over form, opting for Axar and Sundar, both of whom offer depth in batting and fielding.
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Another interesting inclusion in Chopra’s lineup is Nitish Kumar Reddy, who is yet to make his ODI debut. The 21-year-old has represented India in nine Tests and four T20Is, and with Hardik Pandya unavailable, Reddy is likely to fill the role of a fast-bowling all-rounder.
Who makes the cut in @cricketaakash‘s playing XI for India’s 1st ODI vs Australia? 🤔
What’s your take? Tell us your ideal XI in the comments! 👇✍️#AUSvIND 👉🏻 1st ODI | SUN, 19th OCT on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/QKfuQqwuRp
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 15, 2025
According to Chopra, Captain Shubman Gill will open the innings alongside Rohit Sharma, while Virat Kohli will take the crucial No. 3 spot. This combination means Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has played just one ODI so far, might have to sit out. Chopra’s middle order features Shreyas Iyer at No. 4 and KL Rahul at No. 5, followed by Reddy at No. 6.
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In the bowling department, Chopra backed a pace trio comprising Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh. Siraj, returning to India’s ODI squad after more than a year, is expected to lead the attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah (rested) and Mohammed Shami (dropped). Prasidh Krishna remains the fourth pacer in India’s squad for the series.
Aakash Chopra’s India XI for 1st ODI vs Australia: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.
