The buzz ahead of the 1st ODI in Perth was all about the much-anticipated return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to international cricket after a seven-month hiatus. The spotlight was firmly on the seasoned duo, but as they struggled to find their rhythm with the bat, a more pressing concern quietly crept back into the conversation, India’s alarming lack of wicket-taking options, especially in the middle overs.

While Rohit and Kohli’s dismissals stole the headlines, it was the bowling unit’s inability to make inroads after the new ball wore off that truly hurt India. On paper, the playing XI bore a familiar look, particularly the top order, which mirrored the 2023 ODI World Cup squad. But under the surface, the bowling attack lacked teeth, and Australia capitalized.

The Middle-Overs Drou

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