Perth: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has revealed his India XI for the upcoming first ODI against Australia, scheduled for October 19, 2025. The announcement has surprised many fans as Kuldeep Yadav, the top wicket-taker of Asia Cup 2025 with 17 wickets, has been left out of Bangar’s chosen XI.
Bangar’s lineup features Shubman Gill, India’s new ODI captain, opening the innings alongside Rohit Sharma, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul strengthening the middle order. The spin-bowling responsibilities have been handed to Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, while Nitish Kumar Reddy has been included as a fast-bowling all-rounder.
Completing the pace attack are Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, forming a balanced combination of youth and experience.
Sanjay Bangar’s Predicted India XI for 1st ODI vs Australia
Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana.
The India vs Australia 2025 ODI series has drawn major attention as it marks the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to international cricket following India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph. Their future in the ODI format has been a major discussion point since Shubman Gill took over as captain.
Both Kohli and Rohit have retired from Test and T20I cricket, but reports suggest they are determined to continue playing ODIs at least until the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Gill, who also leads the Test side, expressed his admiration for the senior duo, saying:
“The experience that both Rohit and Virat bring is unmatched. There are very few players in the world who have such quality, skill, and the ability to win matches for India.”
As the series begins in Perth, all eyes will be on whether India’s new leadership and team combination can deliver against a strong Australian side.
