Win Projections to be updated soon
Perth, 18 October 2025:
Australia batter Travis Head and India all-rounder Axar Patel spoke to the media on Friday afternoon at Optus Stadium in Perth ahead of the three-match ODI series between India and Australia starting Sunday, 19 October. Both players reflected on team preparations, player transitions, and the excitement surrounding another high-profile India-Australia contest.
“It’s exciting to have India back,” Head said. “They’re a quality squad, and there’s always great energy around when we play them. Every time we’ve played here in Perth, the crowd’s been amazing and I don’t think it’ll be any different this weekend.”
Head, who is set to feature prominently in Australia’s white-ball summer, said the series would be crucial for both sides as they gear up for a busy season. “If you look at the guys playing both series, eight games against a highly skilled opposition – it’s a great way to start the summer,” he said. “We’ll see what the team looks like Sunday, but there’s a lot of excitement around.”
Speaking about teammate Mitchell Marsh’s return to form, Head said, “He’s played nicely. He’s always worked hard at his game. He’s in good form, and it’s exciting for him. Hopefully he doesn’t use up too many runs before the summer,” he joked.
Head also discussed the younger players in Australia’s camp. “It’s hard to believe Matt Renshaw hasn’t played short-format cricket for Australia yet. He’s developed really well and I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes,” he said. “We didn’t start great last series but finished well, so the key for us is to start well on Sunday.”
Asked about the scrutiny faced by young players, Head noted, “International cricket can be pretty brutal. Comparisons after one or two hits can be harsh. He’s a young kid with a huge amount of talent. It’d be nice if people looked after a 19-year-old a bit more, but that’s the reality of it. Inside the group, we’ll make sure we support him.”
On India’s side, Axar Patel said the team was happy to be back in Australia after a long break and was confident ahead of the opening game. “We’ve had our first practice session after six months and are enjoying it,” Axar said. “Everyone is gelling together well. They’re all professionals and know what to do. I think we’re ready to go.”
Reflecting on his own form, the left-arm spinner said, “I’m very confident about this series. I did well in the Asia Cup with both bat and ball and I’m ready for this challenge. It’s been a while since I last played here, so I’m looking forward to it.”
Axar praised new ODI captain Shubman Gill, saying, “If he starts well as captain, that’s perfect. He’s handling both leadership and batting without pressure — that’s a great quality. I think he can achieve success in this series.”
He also spoke about the ongoing transition in Indian cricket. “Younger players are coming in and we talk regularly about how the team is growing,” he said. “Because of the IPL, they’re ready to go straight away. Four years ago, young players might have felt new to this level. Now they adapt quickly.”
Axar added that India’s improved exposure to Australian conditions has changed their mindset. “In 2015, we weren’t used to the bounce and pace. Now we play here regularly, and we focus more on strategy, where to make runs, rather than worrying about the pitch,” he said. “That’s the biggest change.”
