In a major announcement that has sent ripples through the cricketing world, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed India’s squads for the upcoming tour of Australia on October 4, 2025. The announcement brings several significant changes, most notably Shubman Gill being appointed as the new ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma who steps down from the captaincy role. Additionally, cricket fans worldwide are celebrating the return of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who will be playing their first international matches in seven months since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025.
Major Highlights of Squad Announcement
1. Shubman Gill Named ODI Captain
In a landmark decision, Shubman Gill has been appointed as India’s ODI captain, taking over from Rohit Sharma. This marks a significant moment in Indian cricket’s leadership transition, with the 25-year-old now entrusted with leading India’s 50-over format.
2. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Make International Comeback
After a seven-month hiatus from international cricket, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been selected in the ODI squad. Their last appearance for India was in the Champions Trophy final in March 2025.
3. Jasprit Bumrah Rested from ODIs
India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been rested from the ODI series to manage his workload. However, he has been included in the T20I squad.
4. Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant Miss Out
All-rounder Hardik Pandya and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant have been excluded from both squads, reportedly due to ongoing injury concerns.
5. Suryakumar Yadav Continues as T20I Captain
Suryakumar Yadav retains the T20I captaincy, with Shubman Gill named as his vice-captain for the shortest format.
India’s Complete ODI Squad for Australia Tour
Captain: Shubman Gill
Vice-Captain: Shreyas Iyer
Full Squad (15 players):
1. Shubman Gill (Captain)
2. Rohit Sharma
3. Virat Kohli
4. Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)
5. Axar Patel
6. KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
7. Nitish Kumar Reddy
8. Washington Sundar
9. Kuldeep Yadav
10. Harshit Rana
11. Mohammed Siraj
12. Arshdeep Singh
13. Prasidh Krishna
14. Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
15. Yashasvi Jaiswal
India’s Complete T20I Squad for Australia Tour
Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
Vice-Captain: Shubman Gill
Full Squad (16 players):
1. Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
2. Abhishek Sharma
3. Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain)
4. Tilak Varma
5. Nitish Kumar Reddy
6. Shivam Dube
7. Axar Patel
8. Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper)
9. Varun Chakaravarthy
10. Jasprit Bumrah
11. Arshdeep Singh
12. Kuldeep Yadav
13. Harshit Rana
14. Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
15. Rinku Singh
16. Washington Sundar
Complete Tour Schedule
The tour comprises 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is spread across October and November 2025:
ODI Series
| Match | Date | Day | Venue |
| 1st ODI | 19-Oct-25 | Sunday | Perth |
| 2nd ODI | 23-Oct-25 | Thursday | Adelaide |
| 3rd ODI | 25-Oct-25 | Saturday | Sydney |
T20I Series
| Match | Date | Day | Venue |
| 1st T20I | October 29, 2025 | Wednesday | Canberra |
| 2nd T20I | October 31, 2025 | Friday | Melbourne |
| 3rd T20I | November 2, 2025 | Sunday | Hobart |
| 4th T20I | November 6, 2025 | Thursday | Gold Coast |
| 5th T20I | November 8, 2025 | Saturday | Brisbane |
Shubman Gill: India’s New ODI Captain
The appointment of Shubman Gill as ODI captain marks a new era in Indian cricket. At 25, Gill becomes one of the youngest captains to lead India in the 50-over format.
Gill’s Leadership Credentials:
– Already captained India in ODIs during the Asia Cup 2025
– Led Gujarat Titans to IPL title in 2022
– Known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen
– Excellent record as a batter in all formats
– Strong support from team management and seniors
What This Means for Rohit Sharma:
Rohit Sharma’s decision to step down from ODI captaincy allows him to focus on his batting while mentoring the next generation of leaders. He remains a crucial member of the squad and will provide valuable experience.
The Return of Rohit and Kohli
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s comeback is undoubtedly the most anticipated aspect of this tour. Both legends have been away from international cricket since India’s Champions Trophy triumph in March 2025.
Why Their Return Matters:
For Rohit Sharma:
– One of the most successful ODI captains in Indian cricket history
– Wealth of experience playing in Australian conditions
– Average of 50+ in ODIs
– Can open or bat in the middle order as needed
– Leadership qualities still invaluable to young team
For Virat Kohli:
– Former captain and run-machine in all formats
– Outstanding record in Australia
– Averaged 55+ in ODIs before retirement from T20Is and Tests
– His presence boosts team morale significantly
– Chase master who can guide youngsters
Their Journey Back:
After retiring from T20Is following the T20 World Cup triumph in June 2024, both players also announced retirement from Test cricket in May 2025. However, they remained committed to ODI cricket with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.
Notable Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions:
Yashasvi Jaiswal (ODI Squad)
– Young opener gets maiden ODI call-up
– Impressive performances in domestic and Test cricket
– Can provide explosive starts at the top
Harshit Rana (Both Squads)
– Fast bowler rewarded for consistent domestic performances
– Adds pace and bounce to bowling attack
– Opportunity to prove himself at international level
Nitish Kumar Reddy (Both Squads)
– All-rounder provides balance to the side
– Can contribute with both bat and ball
– Useful option in middle order
Exclusions:
Jasprit Bumrah (ODI Squad)
– Rested for workload management
– Will be fresh for T20Is and future series
– Smart decision given his importance to Indian cricket
Hardik Pandya (Both Squads)
– Missing due to injury concerns
– Big blow as his all-round abilities are crucial
– Recovery timeline unclear
Rishabh Pant (Both Squads)
– Also sidelined due to fitness issues
– His absence leaves a void in wicketkeeping and batting
– KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, Jitesh Sharma, and Sanju Samson fill the gap
Mohammed Shami (Both Squads)
– Veteran pacer continues rehabilitation
– Not match-fit for international cricket yet
– His experience will be missed
Shreyas Iyer Returns as Vice-Captain
Shreyas Iyer’s appointment as ODI vice-captain is a significant development. After being dropped from the central contracts list earlier in 2025, his return to the leadership group shows the selectors’ faith in his abilities.
Iyer’s Strengths:
– Excellent player of spin bowling
– Strong record in middle overs
– Captaincy experience with Kolkata Knight Riders
– Can anchor innings or accelerate when needed
The Young Brigade Gets Opportunities
The squads feature several young players who will be keen to make their mark:
Abhishek Sharma (T20I): Explosive left-handed opener
Tilak Varma (T20I): Talented middle-order batter
Rinku Singh (T20I): Finisher with excellent T20 record
Varun Chakaravarthy (T20I): Mystery spinner making comeback
Bowling Attack Analysis
ODI Bowling:
– Pace: Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana
– Spin: Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel
– All-rounders: Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy
The absence of Bumrah is significant, but Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack with support from Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna.
T20I Bowling:
– Pace: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana
– Spin: Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar
– All-rounders: Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy
With Bumrah back for T20Is, India has a formidable bowling attack capable of defending or restricting any total.
Wicketkeeping Options
ODI Squad:
– KL Rahul (primary)
– Dhruv Jurel (backup)
T20I Squad:
– Sanju Samson
– Jitesh Sharma
The absence of Rishabh Pant means KL Rahul will likely don the gloves for ODIs, while Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma compete for the T20I spot.
What This Tour Means for India
1. Preparation for 2027 World Cup
With the ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027, this series provides crucial match practice and team building.
2. Leadership Transition
Shubman Gill’s appointment signals India’s long-term planning for white-ball cricket.
3. Youth Development
Several young players get opportunities to prove themselves against quality opposition in challenging conditions.
4. Workload Management
Resting Bumrah from ODIs shows India’s commitment to managing key players’ fitness.
5. Comeback Trail
For Rohit and Kohli, this marks the beginning of their final phase of international cricket.
Australia: A Tough Challenge
Playing in Australia is never easy. The conditions—bouncy pitches, pace-friendly wickets, and hostile crowds—test every visiting team. India will need to adapt quickly to succeed.
Key Challenges:
– Fast and bouncy Australian pitches
– Quality Australian pace attack
– Adjusting to different conditions across venues
– Jet lag and travel fatigue
– Playing without some key players
India’s Strengths:
– Experienced core with Rohit and Kohli
– Quality spin bowling in both formats
– Young, fearless talent
– Recent success in Australia (Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2021)
– Strong T20I team under Suryakumar
Expert Reactions and Analysis
While official statements from players are awaited, cricket experts have weighed in:
On Gill’s Captaincy:
“Shubman Gill has shown maturity beyond his years. He’s a natural leader and this appointment will only enhance his game.” – Cricket Analyst
On Rohit-Kohli Return:
“Having Rohit and Virat back is massive for India. Their experience in Australian conditions will be invaluable for the young squad.” – Former Indian Captain
On Bumrah’s Rest:
“Smart move by the selectors. Bumrah’s fitness is paramount for India’s future. Resting him from ODIs ensures he’s fresh for T20Is and subsequent series.” – Fast Bowling Coach
What to Expect from This Series
ODI Series Predictions:
– Close contest with both teams evenly matched
– Rohit and Kohli’s form will be crucial
– Spin could play a bigger role than expected
– KL Rahul’s keeping and batting will be tested
T20I Series Predictions:
– India slight favorites with Bumrah back
– Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy will be under scrutiny
– Young players like Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma to watch
– High-scoring matches expected
The announcement of India’s squads for the Australia tour marks an exciting new chapter in Indian cricket. With Shubman Gill taking over ODI captaincy, the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and a blend of experience and youth, India enters this tour with optimism and ambition.
The tour, starting October 19, 2025, promises to be a thrilling contest between two cricketing powerhouses. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as India seeks to continue its recent success in Australia while building for the future.
As Gill leads a new-look ODI side and Suryakumar continues his T20I captaincy journey, Indian cricket enters a transitional phase that could define its trajectory for years to come.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. When was India’s squad for Australia tour announced?
The BCCI announced India’s squads for the Australia tour on October 4, 2025, for both ODI and T20I series.
2. Who is the captain of India’s ODI team for Australia tour?
Shubman Gill has been named as the ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma who stepped down from the captaincy role.
3. Are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli playing in Australia?
Yes, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been selected in the ODI squad. This marks their return to international cricket after seven months since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025.
4. Why is Jasprit Bumrah not in the ODI squad?
Jasprit Bumrah has been rested from the ODI series for workload management. However, he has been included in the T20I squad.
5. Who is India’s T20I captain for Australia tour?
Suryakumar Yadav continues as India’s T20I captain, with Shubman Gill as his vice-captain.
6. Why are Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant not in the squad?
Both Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant have been excluded from the squads due to ongoing injury concerns and fitness issues.
7. When does the India vs Australia series start?
The series begins with the first ODI on October 19, 2025, in Perth.
8. How many matches will be played during the tour?
The tour comprises 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is, totaling 8 matches across October and November 2025.
9. Who is the vice-captain of the ODI team?
Shreyas Iyer has been named as the vice-captain of the ODI team.
10. Where will the ODI matches be played?
The three ODIs will be played in Perth (Oct 19), Adelaide (Oct 23), and Sydney (Oct 25).
11. Where will the T20I matches be played?
The five T20Is will be played in Canberra (Oct 29), Melbourne (Oct 31), Hobart (Nov 2), Gold Coast (Nov 6), and Brisbane (Nov 8).
12. Is this Rohit Sharma’s comeback after retirement?
Rohit Sharma retired from T20Is (June 2024) and Tests (May 2025) but continues to play ODI cricket. This is his return after a seven-month break.
13. Has Virat Kohli retired from ODIs?
No, Virat Kohli retired from T20Is and Tests but continues to play ODI cricket. He’s making a comeback after a seven-month hiatus.
14. Who are the wicketkeepers in the ODI squad?
KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel are the wicketkeepers in the ODI squad.
15. Who are the wicketkeepers in the T20I squad?
Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma are the wicketkeepers in the T20I squad.
16. Is Mohammed Shami in the squad?
No, Mohammed Shami has not been included in either squad as he continues his rehabilitation and is not match-fit yet.
17. Which young players have been included?
Notable young inclusions are Yashasvi Jaiswal (ODI), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh (T20I), Harshit Rana, and Nitish Kumar Reddy (both squads).
18. Why was Rohit Sharma replaced as ODI captain?
While no official reason was given, this appears to be part of India’s leadership transition planning. Rohit can now focus on his batting while mentoring younger players.
19. Will Bumrah play in all T20Is?
While Bumrah is in the T20I squad, his participation in all matches will depend on workload management and team combination needs.
20. How can I watch the India vs Australia series?
Broadcasting details will be announced closer to the series start date. Check your local sports channels and streaming platforms for coverage information.