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The much-anticipated first ODI between Australia and India at the Optus Stadium in Perth began with fireworks from the hosts’ fast bowlers. After winning the toss, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh opted to bowl first on a green-tinged surface — a move that paid immediate dividends. India’s top order crumbled under the relentless pace and movement of the Aussie seamers, losing three wickets for just 25 runs.
The early casualties included the seasoned pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both returning to the ODI setup after a long break. Rohit managed only eight runs before falling to Josh Hazlewood, while Kohli endured a nightmare return, dismissed for a duck.
Cooper Connolly’s brilliance stuns Perth crowd as Virat Kohli goes for a duck
The highlight of the innings came in the seventh over, when Mitchell Starc produced a trademark delivery outside off stump. Kohli, looking to assert himself early, went for a booming drive away from his body. The ball took a thick outside edge, flying towards backward point, where Cooper Connolly pulled off an absolute stunner.
Diving full stretch to his left, Connolly timed his leap to perfection, plucking the ball just 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 players in full control of proceedings. The spectacular catch quickly went viral on social media, with fans and experts lauding Connolly’s athleticism and reflexes.
Here’s the video:
VIRAT KOHLI GONE FOR A DUCK!
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau)
Poor start for Rohit and Kohli on ODI return
Both Rohit and Kohli returned to India’s ODI lineup under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, having last played together in the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year. Their comeback, however, didn’t go as planned. Rohit began with a stylish boundary but couldn’t capitalise, while Kohli’s dismissal without scoring added to India’s early woes.
The duo, who have carried India’s batting for over a decade, looked out of rhythm on the lively Perth pitch. Their failure has raised early concerns about India’s ability to handle Australia’s pace attack, especially after a long layoff from international cricket.
Rain halts play with India struggling at 37/3
As the game entered the 12th over, rain interrupted play, giving India’s middle order a much-needed breather. At the stoppage, Shreyas Iyer (6)* and Axar Patel (7)* were battling to rebuild the innings. Captain Gill was the third batter dismissed, managing only 10 runs before falling to Nathan Ellis.
When play resumes, India will look to stabilise their innings (currently at 37/3) and aim for a competitive total. Meanwhile, Australia, buoyed by their fiery start and Connolly’s screamer, will be eager to continue their dominance and bowl India out cheaply.
