The upcoming India vs. Australia ODI series in late 2025 is generating an incredible buzz, particularly for the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Tickets for the SCG ODI have already sold out a staggering four months in advance, highlighting the immense popularity of cricket and the magnetic appeal of the Indian team, especially its star players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that public ticket allocations for both the Sydney ODI and the opening T20I in Canberra are completely exhausted, underscoring the strong interest from fans, particularly the Indian diaspora.
The primary reason for this unprecedented demand is the enduring star power of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both players, now focusing solely on ODI cricket for India, bring a unique appeal. Seeing these two modern-day greats on the field together has become a rare treat, transforming every match into a must-see event. For many fans, this ODI series presents a precious opportunity to witness Kohli and Rohit, potentially for one of the last times, playing on Australian soil.
This series isn't just another cricketing contest; it represents a farewell chapter in the illustrious careers of two icons. Over 90,000 tickets have already been sold across the entire series, transforming each appearance by Rohit and Kohli into a celebration of their era. The India-Australia rivalry, intensified by the presence of these two legends, is set to unfold in front of packed stadiums and adoring fans.
According to Cricket Australia, a significant portion of the ticket sales, over 16%, has come from Indian fan clubs. Groups like the Bharat Army, with over 2,400 tickets purchased, and Fans India, acquiring more than 1,400 tickets, demonstrate the passionate support and eagerness within the Indian community to witness this series. Amit Goyal from Brissy Baniyas, an Aggarwal community, has also made a substantial purchase of 880 tickets for the Gabba T20I, becoming the highest individual buyer for a single match, along with the Indian Community of Gold Coast and Pakka Local who purchased over 500 tickets for the Gold Coast and MCG T20Is each.
The India tour of Australia includes three ODIs, starting on October 19 in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide on October 23 and Sydney on October 25. A five-match T20I series will follow, with games in Canberra, Melbourne, Hobart, Gold Coast and Brisbane, concluding on November 8.
The significance of the India-Australia series extends beyond the field. The financial impact of these series on Cricket Australia is substantial. In the past, Indian tours have been instrumental in boosting CA's revenue, particularly after periods of financial strain, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The series in 2021 and the recent 2024-25 series have played a crucial role in supporting the board's finances.
Following their respective retirements from T20Is and Test cricket, both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are now dedicated to the ODI format. The last time Kohli and Rohit were seen together in Indian colours was during the Champions Trophy 2025, where India clinched the title under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. A week after the tournament, both stalwarts announced their retirement from Test cricket during IPL 2025 — a decision that surprised fans and pundits alike. The excitement surrounding their comeback in the three-match ODI series in Australia has sparked tremendous anticipation.
