Rohit Sharma's return to the ODI side in the first match against Australia at Perth's Optus Stadium on Sunday, October 19, 2025, was marked by an early dismissal, but also a significant milestone. Despite falling cheaply for 8 runs off 14 balls, this match marked his 500th international appearance for India.

Australia won the toss and elected to bowl, putting India in to bat first. Sharma opened the innings alongside Shubman Gill. However, Sharma's comeback innings was short-lived. He was dismissed in the fourth over by Josh Hazlewood, edging a delivery outside off stump to Matt Renshaw at second slip.

While his individual performance didn't live up to expectations, the match itself was a momentous occasion for the veteran cricketer. Reaching 500 international matches is a testament to his longevity and contribution to Indian cricket.

The early stages of the match proved difficult for India, with Virat Kohli also falling for a duck. India found themselves at 25 for three after 10 overs. The top three batsmen, including Shubman Gill, were dismissed for low scores. Rain interrupted play twice, reducing the match to 49 overs per side. At the time of the second rain interruption, India were 37/3 in 11.5 overs. Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel were at the crease, attempting to stabilize the innings.

Sharma last played for India during the ICC Champions Trophy in March 2025, which India won under his captaincy. He had been working on his fitness, reportedly shedding 8 kilos.

Despite the disappointing start for Sharma and the Indian team, the series is expected to be an exciting contest between two strong sides. The match also marked the ODI debuts for Nitish Kumar Reddy for India, and Matthew Renshaw and Mitchell Owen for Australia.