In the dead rubber game of the three-match ODI series against the hosts Australia at Sydney on Saturday (October 25), India claimed a dominant win, as they beat the hosts by nine wickets with 69 balls remaining after successfully chasing the 237-run target in below 40 overs. 

Already securing the series by 2-0, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh chose to bat first at Sydney Cricket Ground. Australia were bowled out for 236 runs in 46.4 overs, while India chased down the target in 38.3 overs after losing only one wicket. 

[WATCH] Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli reflect on their playing career in Australia after AUS vs IND 2025 series

India recorded largest ODI win against the hosts Australia 

While India won by nine wickets, it was their largest ODI win (by wickets) against Australia in Australia. India's previous record was winning by eight wickets, which happened twice in 1985 and 1986. Meanwhile, it was also India's joint-largest ODI win in Australia, while they previously beat the UAE by nine wickets during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. 

India recorded fastest 220+ ODI chase vs Australia

While India chased the target in 38.3 overs, it was India's fastest 220-run chase in the ODI against Australia, as India won the match by 69 balls remaining at the end of the match. Their previous fastest record was successfully chasing the 251-run target in 41 overs during the 1986 Jaipur ODI. Meanwhile, their previous record of most balls remaining at the end of the match was 43 balls remaining when India successfully chased the 243-run target in 42.5 overs during the 2017 Nagpur ODI. 

AUS vs IND, 3rd ODI: Harshit Rana dominated with ball

The top six Aussie batters got starts, but most of them failed to capitalise on their starts. While Matt Renshaw scored 56 runs off 58 balls, opener and captain Mitchell Marsh scored 41 off 50 balls. Matthew Short was the only other batter in that innings to reach the 30-run mark by scoring 30 runs. 

All six Indian bowlers managed to pick up wickets, while Harshit Rana enjoyed the best bowling figures in his ODI career by recording 8.4-0-39-4. 

AUS vs IND, 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli brought big relief with big knocks

In reply, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and the skipper Shubman Gill set a 69-run partnership for the first wicket. After Gill was dismissed for 24 runs, Rohit and Virat Kohli set up a giant partnership of 168 runs for the unbroken second wicket, as the visitors claimed a comfortable win to avoid the series whitewash. Rohit scored his 33rd ODI century and 50th international hundred by reaching the three-figure mark in 105 balls. Rohit scored 121 off 125 balls with 13 fours and three sixes, while Kohli finally opened his account in the series and scored 74 not out off 81 balls with seven fours.

India opener Rohit Sharma faced an unusual challenge with the bat in the ongoing second ODI against Australia in Adelaide, drawing a candid remark from 2007 T20 World Cup winner Irfan Pathan. Australia, after winning the toss, chose to field first in the three-match series, putting India into bat.

Rohit, making his return to international cricket after 220 days, had a slow start against the Australian pacers. He struggled to score freely early on, surviving the probing spell from Josh Hazlewood, and was on 14 off 40 balls at one stage. His cautious approach reflected the pressure of coming back after a long break and recovering from a low score of 8 runs in the series opener.

The veteran batsman, however, gradually got into his rhythm. He hit two sixes off Mitchell Owen in the 19th over and reached a half-century off 74 balls, showcasing his experience and temperament. Irfan Pathan took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight Rohit’s rare struggle against the white-ball: "Never seen Rohit Sharma get beaten or struggle so much, but this half-century should give him much-needed confidence."

Never seen Rohit sharma got beaten or struggled so much but this half century should give him much needed confidence.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2025

ALSO SEE: IND vs AUS 2nd ODI: Rohit Sharma OUT, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood combine to stop him

Rohit Sharma’s Crucial Partnership and Struggle Highlight India’s Fightback

Rohit’s innings was pivotal as he shared a 118-run partnership with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer for the third wicket, stabilizing India’s innings after early setbacks. Yet, he couldn’t convert his start into a bigger score. Mitchell Starc broke through in the 30th over, dismissing Rohit with a short-pitched delivery. Rohit attempted a pull shot but was caught by Hazlewood at long leg, finishing on 73 runs off 97 balls, with two sixes and seven fours.

At that point, India were 143/3 after 31 overs, with Shreyas Iyer unbeaten on 56 off 72 balls and Axar Patel on 2 off 4 balls. With the series currently at 0-1 in favor of Australia, the second ODI has become crucial for India.

Despite his struggles, Rohit’s innings offered confidence for the remainder of the series, proving that even the most accomplished batsmen sometimes need time to find their rhythm. His performance will be key as India aims to bounce back in the series decider.

Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma was seen giving valuable advice to young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal during a practice session in Adelaide as Team India prepares for the second ODI against Australia on Thursday, October 23, 2025. With Australia leading the three-match series 1-0, India is under pressure to bounce back.

Jaiswal, who made his ODI debut earlier this year against England, is still trying to establish himself in India’s white-ball setup. Though he has been reliable in Tests, his chances in ODIs and T20Is have been rare. Rohit’s guidance on handling Adelaide’s pitch conditions could be crucial for the left-hander as he looks to make an impact.

India had a tough outing in the series opener on a bouncy Perth pitch, suffering a seven-wicket defeat. Rohit, returning after a seven-month break from international cricket, looked rusty and was dismissed for just eight runs by Josh Hazlewood. Despite stepping down from the captaincy, the 38-year-old remains focused on contributing as a senior batter.

Team India Looks to Veterans for Comeback

India is undergoing a transition phase with new ODI skipper Shubman Gill leading the team in Australia. The team is banking on seasoned stars such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to guide the youth and steady performances after a poor beginning.

Watch the video here

🚨 RR mentor Shri Rohit sharma was spotted giving tips to young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal before second ODI vs Aus 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/8DkJZwlleg

— Rish (@Nonegivesshit) October 21, 2025

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Virat Kohli also returned to action in Perth but endured a rare failure, dismissed for a duck by Mitchell Starc. It was his first duck in 30 innings on Australian soil, with Starc’s swing proving difficult as Kohli faced a maiden over before getting out. With the series on the line, India will look to regroup and rely on its veterans and young guns to challenge Australia in the pivotal second ODI at Adelaide.

Veteran Indian batsman Virat Kohli was seen practicing in an intense batting session ahead of the second ODI of the three-match series against Australia. The match is to be played on Thursday, October 23, at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide. Kohli hopes to resurrect himself after a disappointing performance in the series' first match, when he got out for a duck off eight balls by Mitchell Starc in Perth on Sunday, October 19.

India suffered a disappointing day in the first ODI as they lost the game by seven wickets according to the DLS method. With the team looking to get back on track in the second ODI, Kohli was seen perfecting his game in the nets, displaying keenness to play a key role in the next match.

Even though the team suffered a recent loss, Kohli has a brilliant ODI record against Australia. He has scored 2,451 runs in 49 innings at an average of 53.28 and a strike rate of 93.40, including 15 fifties and eight centuries, making him one of India’s most reliable performers against the Aussies.

Ashwin on Rohit and Kohli’s Form

Both returning ace batters, Rohit Sharma (8) and Virat Kohli (0), struggled in India’s opening ODI against Australia. Legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on their form on his YouTube channel: "For their good, I think they can focus a bit more on preparation, especially in terms of playing games before going on tours, but that is not entirely in the hands of players, it needs to be planned by the team management. This is too early to talk about Virat and Rohit, because there are a few more games. My only worry for them is can they get more game time?"

Watch the video here

Virat Kohli in the nets at the Adelaide Oval. pic.twitter.com/RuilGIZUZ2

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 21, 2025

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Ashwin added, "It is not going to be easy for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. I really hope they get some kind of flow, because they have not played any cricket recently. If you are going on an international tour, planning is necessary. We have often travelled overseas 10-15 days before the series begins, travelled in 2-3 batches, so that definitely can be done." Rohit and Kohli have retired from Tests and T20Is and now represent India only in ODIs at the international level.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s first ODI for India in Perth was a personal high and a team low. The 22-year-old all-rounder rescued a rain-affected match with a quick 19 off 11 balls* against Australia, including two sixes that put the crowd on its feet. Even though India lost the match by seven wickets, Reddy's fearless batting was nothing short of a highlight for the visitors throughout the contest.

The emotional moment of the day was the cap presentation ceremony, when former Indian captain Rohit Sharma presented Nitish with his first ODI cap. Rohit appreciated the young player's attitude, work ethic, and bold approach, predicting a rosy future for him in all formats. His words underscored the team's belief in Nitish's potential as a valuable all-rounder.

“Cap No. 260, Nitish Reddy. Welcome to the club. You’ve had a great start to your career, and it’s only because of how you want to play the game and your attitude. I am 110% sure that with that attitude, you are going to go a long way in this Indian team,” Rohit said during the ceremony.

Rohit Sharma Predicts Bright Future for Nitish Reddy

Rohit Sharma went further to predict that Nitish Reddy will excel in all formats of cricket. “You’re going to be an all-format great, which I believe thoroughly because, like you said in your speech yesterday, you want to be everywhere. The team will always support you, and I wish you a great career,” Rohit added.

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On the field, Reddy also bowled 2.1 overs, conceding 16 runs, showing glimpses of his all-round ability. Having already made his Test debut at the same venue last year, he now looks set to become an integral part of India’s cricketing future. While the team lost by seven wickets under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, Reddy’s fearless approach was one of the few positives for India.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that it has not yet chosen a captain for the national men’s team ahead of the upcoming home ODI series against South Africa. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson has requested a joint meeting between the Selection Committee and the Advisory Committee to make a final decision on who will lead the side in the three-match series.

According to the PCB, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has forwarded Hesson’s letter to the two committees, who will meet on October 20 to decide the matter. Sources close to the board said that the talks about a potential leadership change are linked to Pakistan’s preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, a suggestion believed to have come from Hesson himself.

The committees have reportedly been in discussions with a potential candidate who has asked for a guaranteed captaincy term until the 2027 World Cup and full freedom in team decisions.

ODI Captaincy: Rizwan under pressure

The PCB’s statement notably made no mention of Mohammad Rizwan, who was appointed Pakistan’s ODI captain last year. His status now appears uncertain, with the board indicating that the leadership role is still open.

Rizwan has led Pakistan to ODI series victories in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, but 2025 has been a difficult year for the side, including a loss in the home tri-series final to New Zealand, an early Champions Trophy exit, and a series defeat in the West Indies.

Despite this, Rizwan’s personal form has remained strong. He is Pakistan’s second-highest ODI run-scorer in 2025, with 361 runs at an average above 36, and also made a valuable 75-run contribution in the ongoing Test series against South Africa.

However, insiders suggest that Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Salman Ali Agha are in contention to replace Rizwan, with Afridi reportedly the frontrunner.

Shaheen’s redemption arc

Afridi’s name in the captaincy discussion is significant, considering his previous experience as T20I captain, a position he lost soon after Mohsin Naqvi became PCB Chairman. Naqvi had declined to confirm Afridi’s future as captain at the time, insisting that the board wanted a “long-term solution.”

Within a week, Afridi was replaced by Babar Azam, a move that sparked controversy after the PCB issued a statement under Afridi’s name which he claimed he never approved. The matter has since cooled, and sources suggest that Afridi’s relationship with the PCB has significantly improved under Hesson’s tenure.

Although Hesson does not hold the power to appoint the captain, the fact that Naqvi agreed to put the matter before both committees suggests that Hesson’s influence within the PCB setup has grown considerably.

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South Africa’s tour of Pakistan – Full Schedule

South Africa Squads

T20I Squad
David Miller (C), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams.

ODI Squad
Matthew Breetzke (C), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile.

Test Squad
Aiden Markram (C), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton (WK), Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne (WK).

Pakistan Squads

Test Squad
Shan Masood (C), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afrid, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (WK), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

T20I Squad: TBA
ODI Squad: TBA

Decision expected soon

The PCB has confirmed that the joint committee meeting to decide on the ODI captain will take place on October 20, with a final decision likely to follow immediately after.

For now, Rizwan remains Pakistan’s ODI captain in name, but with Hesson pushing for long-term leadership stability and Afridi’s growing influence, a change appears increasingly inevitable.

Rohit Sharma began preparing for his international return with a lively practice session at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park on Friday. The 38-year-old opener was warmly greeted as hundreds of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their cricketing hero in action, creating an electric atmosphere around the ground.

Rohit is set to resume his international career when India face Australia in a three-match ODI series, starting October 19. During the practice, he showcased his trademark aggressive strokeplay, hitting a variety of powerful shots that thrilled the spectators and reaffirmed his enduring skill and fitness despite his age.

Amid the excitement, fans couldn’t resist sharing their hopes beyond the immediate series. Many cheered and encouraged Rohit not just for his upcoming matches but also with an eye on India’s long-term target of clinching the 2027 World Cup, reflecting the nation’s faith in his experience and leadership in the years to come.

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A Fan’s Heartfelt Urge to Rohit Sharma:

A video circulating widely on social media captures the enthusiastic cheers of fans directed at Rohit Sharma. The crowd’s excitement and energy are clearly audible, reflecting the immense support and admiration for the seasoned cricketer as he prepares for his much-anticipated return to international cricket. A fan said, “ 2027 ka World Cup tumhare bina nahi jeet paayenge Rohit bhai! (We won't be able to win the 2027 World Cup without you, Rohit!).”

Fans shouting in front of Rohit Sharma during his practice session 🗣️- "2027 ka World Cup jeetna hai Rohit bhai, tumhare bina possible nahi hai! Australia me bhi aise hi maarna hai… dekho dekho, saamne Starc khada ha"😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/PBhPvnL2gW

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) October 11, 2025

Another cheer erupted from the crowd as Rohit unleashed a powerful pull shot during his high-energy practice session. Another fan said, “ Australia mein bhi aise hi maarna hai. Dekho dekho, saamne Starc khada hai (Need to hit like this in Australia as well. Imagine Mitchell Starc is in front of you).”

Australia holds a special place in Rohit Sharma’s career, having defeated India in the 2023 World Cup final under his captaincy. However, he struck a blistering 92 off 41 balls against them in the 2024 T20 World Cup, helping India secure the title under his leadership.

Even after guiding India to the 2025 Champions Trophy victory in March, Rohit Sharma has stepped down as ODI captain. The leadership role has now been handed to Shubman Gill, marking a new chapter for the team while Rohit continues to contribute as a senior player and mentor.

Rohit Sharma’s future in ODIs has come under speculation. With the 2027 World Cup approaching, he will be 40 years old, prompting questions about his ability to sustain peak performance and fitness levels to compete effectively at the highest level in the coming years.

Rohit Sharma has focused heavily on his fitness recently, with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar noting a 10-kilogram weight loss. His batting remains in excellent shape as well, reflected in his ICC ODI men’s rankings, where he sits at No. 2, just behind his opening partner Shubman Gill.

Afghanistan faced a blow in their ODI series against Bangladesh after star batter Rahmat Shah suffered a calf injury during the second match at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, October 11. The experienced player is now set to miss the third and final ODI on October 14. Despite the setback, Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by 81 runs in a low-scoring contest. The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side posted 190 runs in 44.5 overs before dismissing Bangladesh for 109 to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Rahmat Shah’s injury occurred while he was attempting a quick single in the 15th over. He immediately showed signs of pain and was unable to walk properly. The right-hander retired hurt and was later seen being taken off the field in a wheelchair. In a brave move, Rahmat returned to bat when Afghanistan were nine wickets down for 189, but his comeback lasted just one ball.

Rishad Hossain bowled a googly that struck Rahmat on the abdomen, and he collapsed in visible pain. Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Afghanistan’s physio, Nirmalan Thanabalasingam, rushed to help before Rahmat was carried off the field again in a wheelchair. The injury left fans concerned about his condition and Afghanistan’s plans for the final ODI.

Physio Confirms Serious Injury

Team physio Nirmalan Thanabalasingam later confirmed that Rahmat Shah’s injury was serious and that he would be sidelined for some time. "He (Rahmat) unfortunately succumbed to his injury, so he is out now. We will do all the right things in terms of imaging and stuff tomorrow. He is going to be out for some time, I think," Thanabalasingam said, according to Cricbuzz.

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Rahmat Shah reminded us what heroes are made of 🙌#AFGvBAN pic.twitter.com/Rn4ZVemS9Y

— FanCode (@FanCode) October 11, 2025

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Rahmat recently became the first Afghan batter to surpass 4,000 ODI runs and played a vital half-century in the series opener. His absence will be a major setback for Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Rashid Khan’s brilliant five-wicket haul and Azmatullah’s early breakthroughs sealed Afghanistan’s win as Bangladesh were bowled out for just 109 runs in 28.3 overs.

Rohit Sharma’s future in India’s ODI setup now looks uncertain after the BCCI decided to relieve him of the captaincy. At 38, the seasoned opener is no longer leading the Men in Blue, marking the end of his tenure at the helm.

Shubman Gill has been handed the responsibility of guiding India in the 50-over format, signaling a new era for the team. The decision comes despite Rohit’s successful run as captain, including major tournament victories and a high win percentage.

Former India batter Robin Uthappa, who played alongside Rohit, expressed concern over the change. He feels that being removed from leadership might affect Rohit’s natural aggression at the crease, which has been a hallmark of his ODI batting style over the years.

See Also: Shubman Gill reflects on assuming ODI captaincy from Rohit Sharma

Uthappa Warns Rohit’s Batting May Change After Losing Captaincy:

Rohit Sharma has always set the tone for India in ODIs, playing an aggressive and fearless style from the start. His intent and commitment are reflected in statistics, as he recorded the highest strike-rate among Indian top-five batters in both the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Former teammate Robin Uthappa cautioned that Rohit being stripped of the captaincy might affect his natural approach. There’s a risk he could become more cautious at the crease, potentially altering the very aggression that has defined his successful ODI career.

He said, “ Rohit Sharma is someone who has upped the ante even in one-day cricket. Over the last three or four years, he has played at a much quicker clip, and I think that's been a transformation of sorts for him.”

He further said, “ The shift in the way he (Rohit) approaches one-day cricket has changed. I think he has probably found a sweet spot with that. There are times I feel he doesn't need to be so aggressive. I think he was leading from the front and he wanted to do that.”

He added, “ Now, he would probably be a little more circumspect because it would have been much more difficult to drop a captain versus now as a player. They (the selectors) have also said both these players will be picked on merit. So, I think they (Rohit and Virat Kohli) will be a little more cautious before being uber-aggressive.

Rohit Sharma played his last match as ODI captain in the 2025 Champions Trophy final, confirming he had no immediate plans to retire from the format. However, with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching and Rohit nearing 40 while playing only one format, experts have highlighted the challenge of sustaining his fitness and performance at the highest level.

Rohit Sharma seems committed to maintaining peak fitness, with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar revealing on Instagram that the batter has shed 10 kilograms. After a seven-month hiatus, Rohit is set to make his comeback for India in the three-match ODI series against Australia, beginning on October 19.

The Indian cricket team will depart for Australia in two separate batches on October 15 from New Delhi to play a three-match ODI series followed by a five-match T20I contest. The decision to split the travel schedule was made due to logistical challenges and limited availability of business-class tickets for the long-haul journey.

According to sources in the BCCI, one group of players will fly out in the morning, while the second batch is expected to leave later in the evening. The team will travel to Perth, where the first ODI of the series will be played on October 19.

This white-ball tour comes immediately after India’s ongoing home assignment against the West Indies, with the second and final Test in Delhi scheduled to conclude on October 14. Players part of both the Test and ODI squads will regroup in the capital before departure.

Rohit, Kohli and Iyer to join in Delhi

Former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, along with newly appointed vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, are expected to join the rest of the ODI squad in New Delhi ahead of the team’s departure. “Virat and Rohit will touch down in the capital either on the day of departure or a day prior,” a source told PTI.

If the ongoing domestic or international commitments end earlier than anticipated, some players might be granted a short break to visit their families before assembling in Delhi.

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Shubman Gill takes charge of ODI side

In a major decision, Shubman Gill has been named captain of India’s ODI team, succeeding Rohit Sharma. The move reflects the selectors’ focus on future planning and leadership transition. Despite speculation surrounding their ODI futures, both Rohit and Kohli are understood to have conveyed their intent to continue until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Team dinner hosted by Gautam Gambhir

Before the squad’s departure, head coach Gautam Gambhir has invited all players for a team dinner at his residence in Rajinder Nagar, Delhi. The informal gathering aims to build team spirit and unity ahead of what promises to be a challenging overseas tour.

India’s ODI squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Dhruv Jurel (WK)

India’s T20I squad: Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson (WK), Jitesh Sharma (WK), Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy