Win Projections to be updated soon
Perth, 18 October 2025:
India and Australia will begin their BRT Tyres ODI Series at the Optus Stadium on Sunday, with both sides welcoming back key players and looking to fine-tune their combinations ahead of a busy summer.
Australia captain Mitch Marsh said his side are eager to build on recent momentum at home and make the most of conditions in Perth.
“I think it’s a pretty good wicket for a one-day game,” Marsh said on Friday. “It looks like it’ll have a bit of pace and bounce, which we like here in Perth. We’ll look to play to our strengths.”
Marsh confirmed that a few new faces will feature during the series as part of Australia’s rotation policy.
“We’ll have a couple of debutants across the series, which is always exciting,” he said. “There’s a lot of talent coming through, and this is a good opportunity to test our depth.”
With Cameron Green managing side soreness and ruled out of the ODI leg, Marsh said the all-rounder’s absence offers others a chance to step up.
“It’s obviously disappointing for Greeny, but he’s been bowling well in Shield cricket. We just want to make sure he’s fully fit,” Marsh said. “At the same time, someone like Marnus (Labuschagne) comes in — he’s been in great touch.”
Marsh also welcomed the challenge of facing India at full strength, particularly with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returning to the touring squad.
“It’s always great to play against India when they’ve got their big guns back,” he said. “They bring so much energy and competitiveness to any series. It’ll be a great test for us.”
India captain Shubman Gill, meanwhile, said his side are focused on adapting quickly after transitioning from red-ball cricket to limited-overs play.
“It is a bit challenging, but I think it’s all about going back to the basics of the format,” Gill said. “The challenge is more mental than technical, especially when you’re going from a longer to a shorter format.”
Gill said the presence of senior players Kohli and Sharma has brought valuable experience to the squad.
“The kind of experience and skill set they bring is massive,” he said. “Both are among the best white-ball players ever, and carrying forward their legacy is a big honour for me.”
The young captain admitted it feels special to now lead players he once idolised.
“When I was a kid, I used to look up to them — the hunger and passion they played with inspired me,” Gill said. “It’s a privilege to lead them and learn from them. I won’t hesitate to seek their advice when needed.”
He said clarity and communication are key principles he has taken from their leadership.
“When I played under them, they made everyone feel secure in their role,” Gill said. “As a captain now, that’s the kind of culture I want to build — where everyone knows what’s expected of them.”
Gill also dismissed outside speculation about his working relationship with Rohit Sharma.
“The narrative outside is different, but between us everything is the same as before,” he said. “He’s very helpful. Whenever I have doubts, I go to him or Virat, and they always share their thoughts openly.”
Taking on leadership has also strengthened his own approach to the game.
“I enjoy responsibility. My best cricket often comes out under pressure,” he said. “But when I go out to bat, I think only as a batsman. If I start thinking too much as a captain, I lose that freedom.”
The opening match on Sunday will mark the start of a three-match ODI series, followed by five Twenty20 Internationals between the two sides later this month.
