Daijiworld Media Network - Perth

Perth, Oct 18: Former cricketer Irfan Pathan has picked his India playing XI for the first ODI against Australia, scheduled to be played in Perth on Sunday as part of the three-match series.

On his YouTube channel, Irfan selected new captain Shubman Gill to open alongside the returning Rohit Sharma, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul completing the middle order. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Axar Patel were chosen as the all-rounders.

In the bowling department, Irfan picked Kuldeep Yadav as the spinner, while Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh were tasked with leading the pace attack. He also recommended the inclusion of young pacer Harshit Rana, citing his batting ability and projecting him at number eight as the third fast bowler.

Speaking about the series, Irfan emphasized the importance of the learning curve for new captain Gill, given the presence of senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He highlighted the challenge of balancing respect between juniors and seniors, both on and off the field.

Irfan’s suggested playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj.