The comeback dream turns bittersweet. India managed to post 264/9 in their full 50 overs at Adelaide Oval, but not before witnessing Virat Kohli’s shocking second consecutive duck—a first in his legendary ODI career. Can this total defend the series, or will Australia seal the deal tonight?
Table of Contents
India vs Australia Match Summary at a Glance
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Adelaide Oval, Australia |
| Date | October 23, 2025 |
| Toss | Australia won, elected to bowl |
| India’s Score | 264/9 (50 overs) |
| Top Scorer | Rohit Sharma – 73 (97) |
| Best Bowlers | Xavier Bartlett 3/32, Adam Zampa 3/48 |
| Target | Australia need 265 to win series |
| Series Status | Australia leads 1-0 |
First Innings: India’s Rollercoaster Ride
The Kohli Catastrophe Continues
Virat Kohli was dismissed for a second consecutive duck, marking the first time in his ODI career that he’s failed to score in back-to-back innings. Xavier Bartlett delivered the fatal blow, trapping the Indian maestro plumb in front at his fortress—Adelaide Oval, where Kohli has historically dominated with 244 runs at an average of 61.
This wasn’t in the script. Not here. Not now.
Captain Rohit’s Resilient Stand
When the ship was sinking at 17/2, captain Rohit Sharma stood tall. Rohit notched up his 59th ODI half-century off 74 balls, playing one of his slowest knocks since 2015. But slow and steady won this race—his 73-run innings provided the backbone India desperately needed.
The 100-run partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer rescued India from early collapse, with both batsmen rotating strike intelligently against a disciplined Australian attack.
Related: Cricket Match Analysis
Shreyas Steps Up
Shreyas Iyer brought up his 23rd half-century in ODIs, showcasing grit after walking in at 17/2. His partnership with Rohit added crucial stability, taking India past the 200-mark before both fell in quick succession.
The lower order, featuring Axar Patel (44*) and Nitish Kumar Reddy, provided late fireworks. India managed 26 runs in the last two overs, pushing the total past 260—potentially match-winning on a turning Adelaide surface under lights.
Australia’s Bowling Brilliance
Mitchell Marsh’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss proved tactical genius. Australia made key changes with Xavier Bartlett replacing Nathan Ellis, while Adam Zampa returned after missing the opener due to the birth of his child.
Bartlett’s three-wicket haul (3/32) dismantled India’s top order, while Zampa’s three wickets (3/48) strangled the middle order. The Australian pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood maintained relentless pressure throughout, giving nothing away on a traditionally batting-friendly Adelaide pitch.
Live Updates: ESPN Cricinfo Match Center
The Adelaide Equation
The team batting second has won six of the past eight men’s ODIs played at Adelaide Oval, making this a fascinating chase. India’s 264 looks 20-30 runs short, but Adelaide’s short square boundaries and dew factor could swing things either way.
Australia need 265 to seal the series with one game to spare. With Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh in explosive form, India’s bowlers face a Mount Everest climb under lights.
More Cricket News: TechnoSports Cricket Updates
What This Means for India
Australia already have a firm grip on the series after winning the rain-affected first ODI, making this a must-win game for India. A loss tonight would end India’s hopes and gift Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead.
For Kohli, the nightmare at his favorite venue continues. For India, the question remains—is 264 enough to keep the series alive?
The answer awaits as Australia begins their chase.
Official Coverage: ICC Cricket Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Virat Kohli in the 2nd ODI?
Virat Kohli recorded his second consecutive duck, dismissed by Xavier Bartlett for 0 runs. This is the first time in his 15-year ODI career that Kohli has been dismissed for consecutive ducks, making it a historic low at Adelaide Oval where he averages 61 in ODIs.
Q: Is 264 a good score at Adelaide Oval?
Adelaide Oval is traditionally a high-scoring venue with short square boundaries, and teams batting second have won 6 of the last 8 men’s ODIs here. India’s 264/9 looks 20-30 runs below par, especially considering dew typically assists chasing teams under lights in Adelaide.
