The much-anticipated first ODI between Australia and India on the Optus Stadium in Perth started with fireworks from the hosts’ quick bowlers. After profitable the toss, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh opted to bowl first on a green-tinged floor — a transfer that paid quick dividends. India’s prime order crumbled below the relentless tempo and motion of the Aussie seamers, dropping three wickets for simply 25 runs.
The early casualties included the seasoned pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, each returning to the ODI setup after a protracted break. Rohit managed solely eight runs earlier than falling to Josh Hazlewood, whereas Kohli endured a nightmare return, dismissed for a duck.
Cooper Connolly’s brilliance stuns Perth crowd as Virat Kohli goes for a duck
The spotlight of the innings got here within the seventh over, when Mitchell Starc produced a trademark supply exterior off stump. Kohli, seeking to assert himself early, went for a booming drive away from his physique. The ball took a thick exterior edge, flying in direction of backward level, the place Cooper Connolly pulled off an absolute stunner.
Diving full stretch to his left, Connolly timed his leap to perfection, plucking the ball simply inches above the turf. The Perth crowd erupted as Starc celebrated the prized wicket of Kohli. The dismissal left India reeling at 25/3 and the Australian gamers in full management of proceedings. The spectacular catch rapidly went viral on social media, with followers and consultants lauding Connolly’s athleticism and reflexes.
Right here’s the video:
VIRAT KOHLI GONE FOR A DUCK!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/cg9GbcMRAE
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 19, 2025
Additionally READ: AUS vs IND: Fans troll Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after the duo’s poor outing in the 1st ODI at Perth
Poor begin for Rohit and Kohli on ODI return
Each Rohit and Kohli returned to India’s ODI lineup below Shubman Gill’s captaincy, having final performed collectively within the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this yr. Their comeback, nonetheless, didn’t go as deliberate. Rohit started with a classy boundary however couldn’t capitalise, whereas Kohli’s dismissal with out scoring added to India’s early woes.
The duo, who’ve carried India’s batting for over a decade, appeared out of rhythm on the vigorous Perth pitch. Their failure has raised early considerations about India’s potential to deal with Australia’s tempo assault, particularly after a protracted layoff from worldwide cricket.
Rain halts play with India struggling at 37/3
As the sport entered the twelfth over, rain interrupted play, giving India’s center order a much-needed breather. On the stoppage, Shreyas Iyer (6)* and Axar Patel (7)* had been battling to rebuild the innings. Captain Gill was the third batter dismissed, managing solely 10 runs earlier than falling to Nathan Ellis.
When play resumes, India will look to stabilise their innings (at the moment at 37/3) and intention for a aggressive complete. In the meantime, Australia, buoyed by their fiery begin and Connolly’s screamer, will likely be desperate to proceed their dominance and bowl India out cheaply.
Additionally READ: Australia vs India, ODI & T20I Series: Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details
