Two Changes Indian National Cricket Team Might Make For India vs Australia 2nd ODI

The second ODI between India and Australia will be played on October 23, 2025, at the Adelaide Oval. After a disappointing outing in the series opener, India will be looking to bounce back strongly and level the three-match series. The first ODI in Perth was heavily affected by rain, but Australia made the most of the conditions to hand India a seven-wicket defeat.

In the first match, India’s batting collapsed under overcast skies and a lively pitch. The team could manage only 136 for 9 in 26 overs. KL Rahul was the top scorer with 38 runs, while Axar Patel added a useful 31. Despite a quick counterattack in the end overs, India never really got going. In reply, Australia chased down a DLS-adjusted target of 131 comfortably, led by Mitchell Marsh’s unbeaten 46.

Shubman Gill’s first ODI as captain did not go as planned. His team selection seemed balanced, but the bowling lacked penetration and control after a strong start by the seamers. With Adelaide offering different conditions, India may look to make a couple of tactical changes to strengthen the side.

1. Prasidh Krishna in for Harshit Rana

Harshit Rana played the IND vs AUS 1st ODI in Perth but could not make a mark with the ball. He looked a bit nervous and failed to adapt to the movement and bounce. In contrast, Prasidh Krishna has more experience and is in good form. His extra height allows him to generate bounce and extract movement even on flatter surfaces.

The Adelaide pitch generally offers good carry, which can suit Prasidh’s style of bowling. While neither of the two adds much with the bat, Prasidh’s bowling can be more impactful in Australian conditions.

2. Kuldeep Yadav in for Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar is a valuable all-rounder, but in this situation, India needs a genuine wicket-taking spinner. Adelaide’s surface often provides grip to spinners in the middle overs, and Kuldeep Yadav’s wrist spin could play a major role.

Kuldeep has been India’s most reliable spinner in ODIs over the past few years, capable of breaking partnerships and controlling the game’s flow. Replacing Sundar with Kuldeep will slightly reduce India’s batting depth, but it strengthens the bowling attack, which is more important after the first match’s result.

Probably Unchanged Batting Order

India’s batting lineup is likely to remain unchanged. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are automatic selections, while Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul provide the core in the middle order. Axar Patel looked decent with both bat and ball, and Nitish Reddy showed promise with a few clean hits in the final overs. The main area of concern remains bowling, especially the ability to pick wickets in the middle overs.

The team management will hope that the inclusion of Prasidh Krishna and Kuldeep Yadav can bring better control and attacking options. India must also adapt quickly to the conditions at Adelaide Oval, where the pitch usually supports stroke play and rewards disciplined bowling.

With Australia leading the series 1-0, the second ODI becomes crucial for India. A win here will not only keep the series alive but also help restore confidence in the camp before the final match. The combination of Prasidh’s pace and Kuldeep’s spin could be exactly what India needs to turn things around in Adelaide.