The Indian cricket team faced a disappointing start to their ODI series against Australia in Perth, losing by seven wickets in a rain-affected match. The match marked the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the ODI squad after seven months. However, both veterans failed to make an impact, with Kohli being dismissed for a duck.

Australia won the toss and chose to field, and the game was reduced to 26 overs per side due to rain interruptions. India struggled to build momentum and were eventually bowled out for 136. KL Rahul top-scored with 38, while Axar Patel contributed 31. Australia chased down the revised target of 131 in 21.1 overs, with Mitchell Marsh leading the way with an unbeaten 46.

Kohli's dismissal was a significant blow to India's chances. He faced eight balls and was caught at backward point off a delivery from Mitchell Starc. This was Kohli's first duck in an ODI in Australia. Sharma also had a short stay at the crease, scoring 8 runs before being caught in the slips. Shubman Gill, in his first series as ODI captain, was also dismissed cheaply for 10.

The Australian bowlers exploited the pace and bounce of the Optus Stadium pitch, making it difficult for the Indian batsmen to score. Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc were particularly effective, taking two wickets each. Mitchell Marsh was named the Player of the Match for his unbeaten innings.

This defeat marked India's first ODI loss in 2025, ending their eight-match winning streak. It also placed Shubman Gill in an "unwanted list," becoming only the second Indian after Virat Kohli to lose his first Test, ODI, and T20I as captain.

Despite the loss, the series is still open, with two more ODIs to be played in Adelaide and Sydney. India will need their experienced players like Kohli and Sharma to step up and contribute if they want to win the series. The next matches are scheduled for October 23 and 25. Star Sports will broadcast the series live in India, with live streaming available on JioStar.