During the first ODI ODI between Australia and India at Optus Stadium in Perth, Arshdeep Singh produced early heroics to push India ahead in the match. Due to the rain, the match only went for 26 overs, and Australia chased down the revised target under the DLS system with the support of Mitchell Marsh’s knock.
Arshdeep Singh Early Blow in IND vs AUS: Travis Head’s Dismissal
Instant impact! 🤩#ArshdeepSingh's first ball to #TravisHead and #TeamIndia have their first wicket. 🙌#AUSvIND 👉 1st ODI | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/FkZ5L4CrRl pic.twitter.com/wk0iE6Rgjq
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 19, 2025
The match got off to a sensational start when India’s paceman-in-waiting Arshdeep Singh had a very important moment, taking out Australia’s destructive opener Travis Head with a delivery of the second over of the innings. Head, popularly known as “Moustache Man,” had destroyed India’s hopes in the 2023 ODI World Cup final.
Arshdeep, with a good-length off-side delivery, was able to get Head to top-edge a drive. The ball flew into the hands of Harshit Rana, who was placed at deep third, and he did not err in taking the catch. Head, who was able to score just 8 runs, trudged back to the pavilion, providing India with an early breakthrough.
Travis Head’s Impact on India’s World Cup Heartbreak
Travis Head’s name triggers sorrowful memories among Indian fans because his spectacular knock in the 2023 ODI World Cup final shattered its dream of winning the coveted trophy.
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Head’s spectacular 137 runs from 120 balls, comprising 15 fours and four sixes, was instrumental for Australia’s easy run-chase of 241 runs against India in Ahmedabad. His performance left millions of Indian fans heartbroken, and his early dismissal in Perth was a satisfying moment for Arshdeep and Team India.
India’s Struggles with the Bat in Reduced Overs Format
India lost the toss and were asked to bat first, but the match was interrupted several times by rain. The match was later cut short to 26 overs. India’s batting failed despite some resistance in the difficult conditions. They scored just 136 runs for 9 wickets in their shared overs.
KL Rahul was India’s best batsman with a gritty 38 runs. Axar Patel chipped in with 31 runs, while Nitish Reddy stayed unbeaten on 19. The Indian side did not forge massive partnerships, and they were left with a modest total to protect.
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Australia Chases Down Revised Target with Ease
The game was also affected by the DLS method, which adjusted Australia’s target to 131 runs. With decreased overs and in favor of chasing, Australia was well on its way to chasing the target. Although the initial loss with Travis Head’s dismissal, the Australian team was confident and reached the target comfortably.
Australian Bowling: Hazlewood, Owen, and Kunhman Star
Australia’s bowling, spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Owen, and Matthew Kunhman, was the dominant force in the rain-curtailed conditions. Each of them grabbed two wickets, making it hard for India to reach a competitive score. Their accuracy and discipline were responsible for keeping India below a par score.
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