Former cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has revealed his predicted playing XI for India’s upcoming ODI series opener against Australia, scheduled for Sunday at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The series marks Shubman Gill’s first stint as captain in the 50-over format, with India beginning preparations for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.Batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to return to international cricket for the first time since India’s Champions Trophy victory in March. Rohit will play solely as an opener after handing over the captaincy duties to Gill.Click here to watch Aakash Chopra’s playing XIThe top order appears settled in Chopra’s predicted lineup, with Gill and Rohit opening the batting, followed by Virat Kohli at his usual number three position. Shreyas Iyer, who serves as vice-captain, is slated for the number four spot, while KL Rahul takes the wicketkeeper-batsman role at number five.This arrangement means young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal will likely remain on the bench. With Hardik Pandya unavailable due to injury, Chopra suggests Nitish’s inclusion at number six.The former cricketer has opted for two spin-bowling all-rounders, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, in his predicted XI. This selection notably excludes Kuldeep Yadav, who was the leading wicket-taker in India’s successful Asia Cup campaign with 17 wickets.For the pace attack, Chopra has selected Harshit Rana, who recently received backing from head coach Gautam Gambhir following controversy over alleged favoritism. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh complete the pace trio, with Prasidh Krishna missing out.Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, will be rested as part of his workload management program. The team selection reflects a balance between experience and youth as India begins its journey under new leadership.The series represents the beginning of a new era in Indian cricket with Gill at the helm, as the team starts its long-term preparation for the next World Cup. The presence of senior players Kohli and Rohit adds significant experience to the young captain’s arsenal.
