Pat Cummins shocks world, drops Virat and Rohit from Top India-Australia ODI XI as legends dominate

Sports News: Pat Cummins has created a stir in cricket circles by excluding India’s two biggest modern-day icons, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, from his combined India-Australia ODI XI. Instead, he leaned on former legends, many of whom are already retired. The choice has divided fans across social media, who feel that both Kohli and Rohit have been game-changers in the ODI format.

Tendulkar and Warner chosen as openers

Cummins picked David Warner and Sachin Tendulkar to open the innings. Tendulkar, India’s “God of Cricket,” brings unmatched class, while Warner adds his trademark attacking flair. Together, they symbolize two different eras of batting dominance. This pairing, according to Cummins, provides the perfect blend of stability and firepower at the start.

Ponting and Smith dominate the middle order

Ricky Ponting, one of Australia’s most successful captains, was chosen at number three. Steve Smith followed him, remembered for his 2015 and 2023 World Cup triumphs before retiring from ODIs in 2025. Their inclusion underlined Cummins’ preference for proven match-winners over current stars. Fans, however, question whether Kohli’s unmatched ODI record should have been overlooked in favor of Smith.

Watson and Bevan add finishing touch

The middle order included all-rounder Shane Watson and legendary finisher Michael Bevan. Watson’s versatility with bat and ball made him invaluable in his time, while Bevan was known for calmly chasing targets under pressure. Their presence offers balance, resilience, and depth to Cummins’ dream XI, making it capable of handling any crisis situation.

Dhoni trusted behind the stumps

MS Dhoni, India’s most successful limited-overs captain, was picked as wicketkeeper and finisher. Dhoni’s tactical brain and ability to finish games under pressure set him apart. Cummins described him as the ideal man to control the innings flow, both as a leader and as a composed presence in the middle order.

Bowling unit filled with Australian firepower

The bowling department reflected Australia’s dominance. Shane Warne was chosen as the lone spinner, while Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath represented the classic Aussie pace battery. Zaheer Khan was the only Indian pacer selected, highlighting his 2011 World Cup heroics. Together, this attack offers variety, raw pace, and deadly accuracy, making it nearly impossible for opponents to escape.

Cummins out, Marsh leads upcoming series

Pat Cummins, currently nursing an injury, will miss the India ODI series starting October 19 in Perth. Mitchell Starc will spearhead the pace attack, with Josh Hazlewood as support. Mitchell Marsh, in fine form after his T20 heroics against New Zealand, will captain both ODI and T20 squads. This transition comes as Australia looks to manage workloads ahead of the Ashes.