Cricket fans have been buzzing with updates from around the world, and here’s the latest from the Indian cricket scene. The much-awaited three-match ODI series between India and Australia has officially begun. The first match has concluded — but unfortunately, it didn’t go India’s way.
Before Diwali, India faced Australia in the opening ODI, and the result left many fans disappointed. Team India lost the match rather badly, with Australia winning comfortably by seven wickets and five overs to spare. This defeat has led to serious discussion among cricket experts and fans about where India went wrong.
Many believe that if India hadn’t made a few crucial mistakes, the outcome might have been completely different. So, let’s take a closer look at the five key mistakes that proved costly for India in the first ODI.
1. Leaving Out Yashasvi Jaiswal
The first major mistake was not including Yashasvi Jaiswal in the playing XI. Jaiswal has been in fantastic form recently, consistently scoring runs in almost every series he’s played. He performed brilliantly against England and West Indies and has shown great confidence at the top of the order.
Leaving out a player in such form seemed a questionable move. Had Jaiswal played, he might have given India a strong start and helped set a solid foundation for the innings.
2. Lack of Match Practice for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
The second major issue was the lack of match practice for senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both stars hadn’t played any ODI cricket for nearly seven months. Going into a big series without recent match time can heavily affect a player’s rhythm and timing.
It was visible in their performance that both were not at their best. Ideally, these players should have played a few warm-up games to build form and confidence before facing a team like Australia.
3. Unclear Role of Harshit Rana
Another confusing selection decision was including Harshit Rana in the playing XI. Fans and experts questioned his role in the team since it wasn’t clear what the plan was for him.
He didn’t seem to contribute effectively, and many feel that his inclusion might have taken the place of a more experienced bowler or all-rounder who could have made a bigger impact.
4. Kuldeep Yadav’s Absence
One of the biggest talking points has been Kuldeep Yadav’s omission. Kuldeep is known for taking wickets in the middle overs and has been in brilliant form in recent matches. He’s helped India win many games with his spin bowling, yet he wasn’t selected for the first ODI.
Fans and analysts alike are puzzled. Had Kuldeep played, he might have broken crucial partnerships and slowed down Australia’s chase.
5. No Mohammad Shami in the Playing XI
Finally, Mohammad Shami’s absence raised eyebrows. Shami has been one of India’s most dependable bowlers in both Tests and ODIs. His ability to swing the ball and take early wickets could have made a difference against a strong Australian batting lineup.
Reports say he was available for selection but was still left out. Many feel that not picking him was a tactical mistake that weakened India’s bowling attack.
Lessons for Team India
These five decisions combined proved costly for the Indian side. Australia chased down the target with ease, exposing India’s lack of balance and strategic planning.
If India can correct these mistakes in the upcoming matches — like fielding the right combination, ensuring key players have match practice, and backing in-form players — they will stand a much better chance of turning the series around.
Fans remain hopeful that Team India will bounce back stronger in the remaining ODIs and avoid repeating these costly errors.