As anticipation builds for the Australia vs India 2025 ODI series, the Australian pacer Patrick Cummins sparked excitement by revealing his all-time combined ODI XI on Star Sports. The World Cup-winning captain, known for his analytical cricketing mind, has made it clear that his list will include only retired players, hence the absence of modern-day stars such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Travis head and Cummins himself.
Cummins’ selection draws heavily on Australia’s golden generation who dominated one day between 1999 and 2007, while also celebrating Indian ODI icons who defined the sport’s biggest stages. The inclusion of names like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni and Zaheer Khan underlines his appreciation of India’s influence on world cricket, particularly during its 2011 World Cup triumph.
India-Australia ODI XI: Pat Cummins explains his choice of players
Cummins shared detailed information about his thought process behind each player’s choice.
On Tendulkar and Warner: “Both could dominate any bowling attack in their era,” Cummins remarked, crediting Tendulkar’s classic stroke play and Warner’s fearless aggression as a dream combination to open the innings.
On Dhoni: calling him out “the ultimate finisher and leader” Cummins praised MS Dhoni for his unmatched composure and leading India to the 2011 World Cup title.
On Ponting: He hailed Ricky Ponting as “the quintessence of Australian competitiveness” entrusting him with the position of captain of the dream eleven for his leadership and winning consistency.
Pat Cummins’ all-time India-Australia ODI XI
David WarnerSachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting (captain), Shane Watson, Michael Bevan, Steve Smith, MS Dhoni (week), Shane Warne, Zaheer Khan, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee.
The combination combines explosive batting depth, versatile options and a lethal bowling attack – symbolizing the best talents that the two cricketing giants have produced over the decades.
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Cummins to miss upcoming ODI series against India
While his all-time playing XI has attracted worldwide attention, Cummins also confirmed that he will miss the upcoming ODI series against India due to a lower back injury suffered earlier in 2025. With the Ashes looming in November, the Australian management opted to rest him as a precautionary measure.
In his absence, Mitchell Marsh will take on the role of captain, leading an Australian side keen to maintain their strong home record. Cummins has expressed optimism that he will return to full fitness for the Ashes series starting November 21 in Perth.
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