Will rain spoil Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s ODI return?:Perth pitch might add challenge to Gill’s first white-ball assignment if showers don’t interrupt

The much-anticipated three-match ODI series between India and Australia will kick off today at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The series promises exciting cricketing action as two of the strongest teams in world cricket face off once again after the Champions Trophy at 9:00 AM today. It is not just the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli that has fans eagerly waiting for the game. Rather, it is Shubman Gill’s first white-ball assignment, and he is yet to secure his first victory for India in the blues as captain. How will the 26-year-old navigate through the Aussie challenge with ‘Ro-Ko’ on his side? The return of old knights This series marks the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to international cricket after a seven-month break, adding to the excitement among fans. The last time the two played under a different captain was nine years ago, against New Zealand. Both of them have completely transformed themselves, with Rohit getting leaner before the tour and nets session in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Kohli shared a couple of snippets of himself training in London. Gill’s first white-ball test as captain Adding a new chapter to India’s leadership transition, Shubman Gill will lead the side for the first time as the full-time ODI captain, having taken over from Rohit Sharma ahead of the tour. His overseas batting standards match up to the mark. However, India’s 75 per cent win record under Rohit in ODIs is not a feat easy to match. Moreover, the Mitchell Marsh-led Aussie side, even without Pat Cummins, will be a challenging first opponent. IND vs AUS, 1st ODI, Match Details Date Time: 19 October, 09:00 AM Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth, Australia Live Streaming: Jio Hotstar (App/Website) Live Telecast: Star Sports Network IND vs AUS head-to-head India and Australia have clashed 152 times in ODIs. Out of these encounters, Australia holds the upper hand with 84 victories, while India has won 58 matches. The remaining 10 games ended with no result. Optus Stadium: Pitch report The Optus Stadium has offered little joy to batters in recent ODIs, with Australia dismissed for 152 and 140 in its last two fixtures at the venue. In fact, the host has lost all three of its ODIs at this ground. It is one of the most bounciest pitches in the world, but the pace and bounce get slower as the match progresses. The drop-in surface usually keeps both pacers and spinners interested, but with the forecast for rain, the conditions could play a bigger role than the pitch itself. So, there are chances that the captain winning the toss might choose to bowl first. Perth weather report The weather for Sunday is expected to be partly sunny with a pleasant temperature of around 19°C. However, there might be a brief shower or two, considering there is a 70% chance of precipitation. Also, a high possibility of overcast conditions will favour the seamers. Humidity levels will be around 70% while the breeze will be moderate, with wind blowing at 22 km/h.