In a strategic move, Australia won the toss and elected to bowl in the opening One-Day International (ODI) cricket match against India at Perth on Sunday. This marks the beginning of a highly anticipated series between the two cricketing giants. India, under the leadership of their newly appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill, is looking to build momentum ahead of the 2027 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Gill, who also captains India’s Test team, has taken over the reins from Rohit Sharma, who returns to the squad as a batter alongside Virat Kohli. The duo, who had retired from Test cricket before India’s tour of England, are back in action for the first time since India’s Champions Trophy victory in March. On the Australian side, Mitchell Starc makes a comeback after being rested for recent series, as the hosts gear up for a packed summer schedule. This includes three ODIs and five Twenty20 Internationals against India, followed by the Ashes Test series against England. Mitch Marsh, leading the Australian team, will open the batting with Travis Head on his home pitch. The hosts have also introduced fresh faces to their middle order, including Matt Renshaw, Josh Philippe, Mitch Owen, and Cooper Connolly. India’s eight-game tour of Australia will see them play ODIs in Perth, Adelaide (October 23), and Sydney (October 25), followed by five Twenty20 matches across Canberra, Melbourne, Hobart, Gold Coast, and Brisbane. Both teams are set to showcase their depth and talent as they prepare for future challenges on the global stage.