The much-awaited India vs Australia ODI series began with a disappointing performance from India. Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma faced early dismissals at Optus Stadium, Perth. They are just a few runs away from surpassing the record of former cricket legends. However, they both couldn’t make a perfect start, and it analyzes their form.

After retiring from Test and T20 cricket, Virat and Rohit came back to play against Australia with full hope, but failed to fight back.  Rohit’s return to international cricket after a fitness transformation ended when he was dismissed for 8 runs off 14 balls by Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood. He started the innings with full confidence, but was caught by debutant Matt Renshaw. Alternatively, Virat Kohli stepped out to play with reliance, but Cooper Connolly caught the ball bowled by pacer Mitchell Starc, and he got out for zero after facing 8 balls. This is the first time in history that Virat Kohli has been out for a duck in an ODI in Australia. This early top-order collapse is challenging the Indian team's inconsistency and lack of handling pressure.

VIRAT KOHLI GONE FOR A DUCK!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/cg9GbcMRAE

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 19, 2025

As both players missed the chance to perform well in the first match of the series, they should consider returning in full form for the upcoming games. Their lack of adaptability and imperfect shot selection led to their early wickets. Based on Kohli’s performance, he has been having trouble with balls outside the off-stump in Australia. If both players performed with more focus, waited to play their shots later, and adapted to the pitch bounce, it would help them get back in form.