IND vs AUS 1st ODI 2025: Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood starred in Australia’s dominant win over India in the first ODI at Perth’s Optus Stadium, showcasing why he is one of the most reliable pacers in world cricket. With his towering bounce and precise line, Hazlewood dismantled India’s top order, leaving fans and critics in awe of his skill. Following his match-winning performance, the tall pacer expressed his desire for a similar pitch to be prepared for the upcoming Ashes series, which begins this November.
Hazlewood’s Masterclass at Optus Stadium
On a lively Perth wicket, Hazlewood combined perfectly with fellow pacer Mitchell Starc to reduce India to 25 for 3 within the first 10 overs. His key scalps included top Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer, whose dismissals swung the momentum decisively in Australia’s favour.
Reflecting on his performance, Hazlewood said:
“It was a nice start. My rhythm felt good off the back of New Zealand. Everything is feeling good at the moment, a nice way to start the build to the Ashes.”
The wicket offered steep bounce and pace, which suited Australia’s tall bowling unit perfectly. Hazlewood’s ability to extract bounce consistently made it difficult for India to settle, highlighting his mastery over Perth conditions.
Looking Ahead to the Ashes
The Ashes series 2025 is set to be one of the highlights of the cricketing calendar, with the first Test scheduled to take place in Perth on November 21. Hazlewood, reflecting on the upcoming five-match series against England, expressed his hope that the pitch at Perth would replicate the characteristics of the Optus Stadium wicket.
“Perth always offers some nice bounce and pace, which has served us well in the past, especially with our bowlers who all offer something different,” he said.
Hazlewood’s comments underline his confidence in playing on bouncy tracks — a scenario that has historically favoured Australia’s fast-bowling arsenal.
Fitness and Leadership Concerns
Australia will be without captain Pat Cummins for at least the first Test, as he continues to recover from a lower back injury. Hazlewood acknowledged the physical toll fast bowling takes over long seasons, noting that minor injuries and niggles are a part of every pace bowler’s routine.
“Every fast bowler has a niggle or two, and after a while, it just becomes part of your routine as a quick,” Hazlewood said.
Despite these challenges, Hazlewood is confident in his own fitness and readiness for the Ashes series:
“My body feels great right now. I am very confident of getting through all five Tests without any dramas.”
A Confidence Booster for Australia
Hazlewood’s performance in Perth is more than just a personal achievement — it serves as a statement to England that Australia’s pace attack will be formidable in the Ashes. His combination of bounce, accuracy, and experience makes him a key weapon, especially on wickets that favour fast bowling.
With the first Test in Perth, Hazlewood’s desire for a similar pitch underlines the team’s strategy: to maximize home advantage and challenge England from day one. Fans can expect an exciting contest where bounce, pace, and tactical brilliance will play a major role.
Key Takeaways
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Josh Hazlewood starred in Australia’s 1st ODI win over India, taking key wickets of Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer.
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He wants a Perth-styled pitch for the first Ashes Test starting November 21.
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Hazlewood is confident about his fitness and aims to play all five Tests in the series.
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Australia will start the Ashes without captain Pat Cummins, making Hazlewood even more crucial.
Conclusion
Josh Hazlewood’s recent heroics at Perth have set the tone for Australia’s preparation ahead of the Ashes 2025. His confidence, combined with a lively Perth-style pitch, could prove decisive against England. As fans eagerly await the first Test, Hazlewood’s rhythm and skill promise thrilling cricket filled with bounce, pace, and high-stakes drama.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available reports and match updates as of October 20, 2025. Player fitness, pitch conditions, and team selections are subject to change. Readers are encouraged to follow official cricket boards and live updates for the latest information.