The Indian cricket fans have received a wave of excitement as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the squad for the upcoming India tour of Australia 2025. The three-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on October 19 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), followed by five T20 internationals.
The headline-grabbing news, however, isn’t just the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the squad — it’s the announcement that Shubman Gill will be leading Team India as captain, with Shreyas Iyer serving as his deputy. This marks a new era in Indian cricket, signaling a gradual leadership transition towards a younger generation of cricketers ahead of the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
A New Captain, A New Vision: Shubman Gill Takes the Helm
Shubman Gill, one of India’s most consistent and technically sound young batters, has been appointed the captain for the ODI series against Australia. The 26-year-old has been in stellar form across all formats, often touted as the next big leader of Indian cricket.
His calm temperament, sharp game awareness, and modern approach make him an ideal choice to take India forward in the white-ball format. This decision also aligns with the selectors’ long-term vision to prepare a young leadership core well before the 2027 World Cup.
Assisting Gill will be Shreyas Iyer, who has been rewarded for his perseverance and hard work. Iyer’s appointment as vice-captain is a testament to his consistent performances and leadership capabilities demonstrated in domestic cricket and the IPL.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Return — But Not as Leaders
While fans will rejoice to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli donning the blue jersey again, this time, their roles will be purely as senior players. The duo, who have been the face of Indian cricket for more than a decade, will provide the much-needed experience and mentorship to the young side.
Rohit, who led India to multiple major finals including the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy victory, has gracefully stepped aside to allow Gill to shape the future of Indian cricket. Kohli’s presence in the middle order will stabilize the batting lineup, providing support to Gill and Iyer in high-pressure situations.
India’s 15-Member Squad for Australia ODIs
The BCCI has announced a well-balanced 15-member squad featuring a mix of experience and youth. Here’s the complete lineup:
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Axar Patel
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
- Harshit Rana
- Prasidh Krishna
- Dhruv Jurel
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
Notable Inclusions and Surprises
1. Nitish Kumar Reddy – The All-Rounder Opportunity
One of the most surprising yet exciting names in the squad is Nitish Kumar Reddy, the young Andhra Pradesh all-rounder. His inclusion comes at a time when India is struggling with Hardik Pandya’s injury concerns. Hardik, who injured his hamstring during the Asia Cup 2025, has not yet fully recovered.
Selectors see Reddy as a promising all-round option who can fill the void left by Pandya. Known for his aggressive batting and disciplined medium pace, Reddy’s presence adds depth to both the batting and bowling units.
2. Dhruv Jurel – A Reward for Consistency
Another fresh face in the squad is Dhruv Jurel, the wicketkeeper-batter who impressed in the recent Test series against West Indies, where he scored a gritty century on debut. With Rishabh Pant still recovering from his foot injury sustained during the England tour, Jurel has been chosen as his temporary replacement.
His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
Key Omissions: Bumrah and Pandya Rested
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are the major talking points. While Hardik remains sidelined due to injury, sources suggest Bumrah has been rested strategically to manage workload ahead of the long international season and the T20 World Cup next year.
India’s pace attack will therefore rely on Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana. The trio’s performance will be crucial on Australian pitches that traditionally favor fast bowlers.
Probable Playing XI for the First ODI
Considering conditions and balance, India’s probable playing XI for the opening ODI could be:
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)
- KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kuldeep Yadav
This combination provides India with a solid top order, all-round balance, and a blend of pace and spin in the bowling attack.
Selectors’ Strategy: Building for the Future
The decision to hand over the ODI captaincy to Shubman Gill isn’t just about the upcoming series — it’s a strategic move aimed at shaping the team for the 2027 ICC World Cup, which will be held in South Africa.
After India’s heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 World Cup final, the selectors are keen to ensure that the next generation of leaders gets adequate exposure and experience in international cricket.
The focus now is on long-term stability and team combinations, ensuring that India doesn’t face last-minute uncertainties like in previous tournaments. The selectors seem determined to create a core of players — much like MS Dhoni did ahead of the 2011 World Cup.
India’s Schedule for the Australia Tour 2025
- 1st ODI: October 19 – Melbourne
- 2nd ODI: October 22 – Sydney
- 3rd ODI: October 25 – Brisbane
- T20I Series: Five matches to follow immediately after the ODIs
This tight schedule will test India’s bench strength, adaptability, and endurance — crucial aspects for a team aiming to build momentum for future ICC events.
Shreyas Iyer’s Well-Earned Vice-Captaincy
For Shreyas Iyer, the vice-captaincy is a reward for resilience. After battling injuries and form dips, Iyer has made a strong comeback in 2025. His consistent performances in domestic tournaments and the IPL have reestablished him as one of India’s most reliable middle-order batters.
In Tests, Iyer has often been in and out of the side, but with several players vying for the No. 3 spot, his leadership experience could solidify his place across formats.
Future of Kohli and Rohit: Will They Play the 2027 World Cup?
A big question hovering over Indian cricket fans is — Will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play in the 2027 World Cup?
While both players continue to maintain top fitness and form, age could become a factor by 2027. Kohli will be 38 and Rohit 40 when that World Cup arrives. Their inclusion will depend on performance, form, and fitness over the next two years.
However, for now, the duo remains integral to India’s plans, serving as mentors and stabilizers in a young and evolving squad.
Bowling Department: Young Pacers to Lead the Attack
In the absence of Bumrah, the responsibility of spearheading the pace attack falls on Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana.
Siraj’s accuracy and ability to swing the new ball make him the most experienced among the trio. Arshdeep’s left-arm angle brings variation, while Harshit Rana’s raw pace and aggression offer a new dimension.
On Australian pitches known for bounce and carry, this young pace unit could be India’s biggest weapon.
Spin Options: Kuldeep and Washington to Play Key Roles
The spin department will be led by Kuldeep Yadav, with Washington Sundar and Axar Patel offering additional all-round balance. Kuldeep’s resurgence in recent months has been remarkable — his variations and improved control have made him a genuine match-winner again.
Washington’s economical bowling and ability to bat down the order make him a key player in the middle overs, especially on larger Australian grounds where spinners often rely on flight and guile rather than turn.
BCCI’s Long-Term Plan and the Youth Movement
The selectors’ approach reflects a clear vision for the future. With Gill, Iyer, Jaiswal, and Reddy forming the new core, India seems focused on grooming its next generation of superstars.
In recent tournaments like the Asia Cup 2025, India experimented with younger squads — a strategy that paid off handsomely. The upcoming Australia series will be a crucial test for this youth-driven side.
If successful, Gill’s captaincy stint could mark the beginning of a new golden era in Indian cricket.
Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Experience and Youth
As India prepares to face Australia in their own backyard, the balance of the squad looks promising — experienced veterans combined with fearless youngsters eager to make their mark.
The Shubman Gill-led side represents the dawn of a new chapter — one built on fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a clear roadmap toward the 2027 World Cup.
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli offering experience, and Shreyas Iyer stepping up as a dependable leader, India appears well-equipped for both short-term success and long-term dominance.
Cricket fans around the world will be watching closely as this young Indian side takes on the mighty Aussies — a battle not just for victory, but for the future of Indian cricket itself.