Perth — The much-anticipated comeback of Indian stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma turned into a brief and disappointing affair as India suffered a seven-wicket defeat to Australia in the first ODI at the Optus Stadium on Sunday. The rain-hit match, reduced to 26 overs per side, saw India crumble to 136 for 9, setting a revised DLS target of 131 for the hosts, which they comfortably chased down in 21.1 overs.
Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh led from the front with a composed 46 not out off 52 balls, steering his team to victory with a key 55-run partnership alongside Josh Philippe (37 off 29 balls). Travis Head fell early to Arshdeep Singh, while Matthew Short’s dismissal offered India some hope, but the home side’s control never waned.
Indian pacers, including Arshdeep, Mohammad Siraj, and debutant Harshit Rana, struggled for rhythm and consistency. Marsh took full advantage, smashing a six each off all three pacers, including a stunning inside-out drive over cover off Siraj.
Earlier, India’s innings was marred by rain interruptions and disciplined Australian bowling. Rohit Sharma, playing his 500th international match, managed only eight runs before falling to Josh Hazlewood, while Virat Kohli registered a rare duck in Australia after edging a Mitchell starc delivery to backward point.
Captain Shubman Gill (11) and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer (6) also departed cheaply, leaving India reeling at 45 for four. KL Rahul (38 off 30) stood out as the lone bright spot, showing fine control against the bounce and playing a few elegant strokes, including two sixes off spinner Matthew Short. Axar Patel (31) provided support with a steady knock, but the lower order failed to capitalise in the closing overs.
The victory gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next games set to take place in Adelaide and Sydney. Both Kohli and Rohit will be under pressure to deliver substantial performances as India looks to bounce back.
