The opening ODI between Australia and India at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday had its share of drama — from rain delays to quick wickets — but it was a light-hearted off-field moment that stole the spotlight.
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill enjoy popcorn during rain break in first ODI
During one of the rain breaks, Indian captain Shubman Gill and senior batter Rohit Sharma were seen sharing a bucket of popcorn in the dressing room, leaving fans in splits and social media buzzing with reactions.
Rohit appeared relaxed on his return to international cricket. Despite a rusty showing with the bat in the first ODI of the three-match series, the veteran opener looked calm and composed as he spent time with newly appointed captain Gill in the dressing room at Optus Stadium.
Rohit and Gill were seen sharing a bucket of popcorn during a rain break, minutes after being dismissed in the first hour of play. Undeterred by the chatter surrounding their early exits, the two batters enjoyed their snack and engaged in a lengthy chat during the first of several rain breaks in Perth. Both had changed into their training kits and appeared to be discussing match moments and shots played by the batters out in the middle.
Former India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar, speaking on the official broadcast, lauded the bond between the two. However, he humorously advised Gill not to offer popcorn to Rohit, referring to the opener’s impressive weight transformation. Rohit has reportedly lost nearly 10 kilograms ahead of the ODI series, earning praise for his renewed focus on fitness.
Here’s the video:
— Aman (@Amanriz78249871) October 19, 2025
India struggle with the bat in rain-hit encounter
Despite the fun off-field moment, India’s batting effort didn’t go as planned. Frequent rain interruptions forced the game to be reduced to 26 overs per side, and the visitors could manage only 136/9. KL Rahul top-scored with a fluent 38 off 31 balls, while the rest of the batting lineup faltered against Australia’s disciplined attack.
For the hosts, Josh Hazlewood starred with figures of 2 for 20 in his seven overs, while young Mitchell Owen (2/20) and spinner Matthew Kuhnemann (2/26) chipped in with crucial wickets.
Also WATCH: Cooper Connolly takes a screamer to dismiss Virat Kohli for a duck in 1st ODI – AUS vs IND
