Play has been stopped due to rain in the first ODI between India and Australia at the Optus Stadium, Perth, with India struggling at 25/3 in 8.5 overs. The drizzle, which began shortly after the fall of Shubman Gill’s wicket, forced the players off the field as the umpires called for covers.
Earlier, Australia’s pacers had completely dominated the proceedings. Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Ellis struck early to leave India reeling inside nine overs.
- Rohit Sharma (8 off 14) was caught at second slip off Hazlewood.
- Virat Kohli (0 off 8) was dismissed by Starc, edging to backward point.
- Shubman Gill (10 off 18) followed soon after, caught behind off Ellis.
At the time rain interrupted play, Shreyas Iyer (2 off 9) and Axar Patel (0 off 4) were at the crease, trying to stabilize the innings.
The rain arrived at 12:13 PM local time (09:43 AM IST), halting what had been a fiery spell of Australian fast bowling under overcast conditions. Ground staff have covered the pitch, and players await an update as showers continue in Perth.
