Australia delivered a clinical performance to defeat India by seven wickets in the opening One Day International of the series, played at Perth Stadium. The rain-disrupted match saw India restricted to 136 for 9 in 26 overs, after multiple weather interruptions shortened their innings.
Returning veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were expected to bolster India’s batting lineup, but both failed to make an impact. Rohit was dismissed for just 8, while Kohli fell for a duck—his first in an ODI on Australian soil in over a decade. India’s top order collapsed early, reduced to 25 for 3 within the powerplay.
Despite a brief resistance from KL Rahul (38) and Axar Patel (31), the Indian batting unit never fully recovered. Australia’s fast bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, using pace and bounce to keep India under constant pressure.
In response, Australia chased down the revised target of 131 with ease, reaching the goal in just 21.1 overs. Stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh led from the front with an unbeaten 46, while Josh Philippe impressed on debut with a brisk 37 from 29 deliveries.
India’s defeat marks their first ODI loss of the year and raises concerns about their vulnerability in foreign conditions, particularly on bouncy tracks. Meanwhile, Australia take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series, showcasing both depth and composure under pressure.
The second ODI is expected to test India’s ability to adapt quickly, as questions now surround the form and roles of key senior players ahead of the upcoming tournaments.
