Former India batting coach, Sanjay Bangar, has shared his preferred playing XI for India’s eagerly awaited first One-Day International against Australia, set to take place in Perth on October 19, 2025. What’s truly raised eyebrows is the conspicuous absence of Kuldeep Yadav, who was the leading wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2025.
This team announcement comes as India prepares for its inaugural ODI under the captaincy of young talent Shubman Gill. Meanwhile, cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are slated to make their return to international cricket following India’s triumph in the Champions Trophy earlier in March.
Bangar’s handpicked XI sees Shubman Gill leading the charge as captain, opening the innings alongside Rohit Sharma. The formidable Virat Kohli follows, with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer and wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul solidifying the middle order. The bowling attack is bolstered by spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, complemented by the fast-bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy.
The pace department is rounded out by Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, completing the eleven players Bangar believes are best suited for the series opener against Australia.
The decision to exclude Kuldeep Yadav has certainly ignited debate among fans and pundits alike, especially given his stellar performance in the Asia Cup 2025, where he impressively bagged 17 wickets to become the tournament’s highest wicket-taker.
Beyond team selections, the cricketing future of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in international matches has become a hot topic, particularly in light of Gill’s appointment as ODI captain. Both seasoned players have already transitioned away from Test and T20 International formats but are reportedly keen on continuing their ODI careers through to the 2027 World Cup.
Commenting on the veteran duo, Gill stated, “The experience that both of them have and the matches that they have won for India, there are very few players who have won so many matches for India…players who have such skills and qualities with this experience are very few.”
Here is Sanjay Bangar’s complete playing XI for the first ODI against Australia:
* Shubman Gill (captain)
* Rohit Sharma
* Virat Kohli
* Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain)
* KL Rahul (wicketkeeper)
* Axar Patel
* Nitish Kumar Reddy
* Washington Sundar
* Arshdeep Singh
* Mohammed Siraj
* Harshit Rana