AUS vs IND 2025: Aakash Chopra feels Washington Sundar will play ahead of Asia Cup star in Perth ODI

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra feels India will go for extra batting depth in Perth in the upcoming first ODI of the series against Australia and therefore play Washington Sundar instead of Kuldeep Yadav. The eight-match white-ball series is scheduled to get underway on Sunday, October 19.

Chopra felt Sundar would add more value to the team in pacy and bouncy conditions in Perth where chances for a batting collapse is more probable than the other venues at which the Men in Blue will play the 50-over leg.

"I wonder who should be played at No. 8. There are two options. Either I play Kuldeep Yadav and keep four bowlers from No. 8 to No. 11 or else I can go towards Washington Sundar. We are playing in Perth. There is more bounce and pace there, and batting is slightly difficult. You might lose two or three wickets quickly at the start. If that happens, you will need batting depth," stated Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.

While Chopra highlighted the need for six bowlers in Perth, he reiterated about Kuldeep not getting into the XI. However, he said that the lineups might differ for the second and third ODIs.

"Do you see a big role for spin in Perth? I don't think so. You need six bowlers for sure. I feel Washington Sundar will be in for the game in Perth. I am saying this only for Perth. We will talk about Sydney and Adelaide separately. I know it's unfair for Kuldeep, but I don't see him playing easily," he added.

Chopra also spoke about how Axar Patel's performance at No. 7 will be crucial not only for him, but for Ravindra Jadeja's future prospects. For the unversed, Jadeja had recently expressed desire to be a part of the squad for the 2027 World Cup. 

"Axar Patel at No. 7. That is an important number because Ravindra Jadeja could have been there. He was part of the Champions Trophy team as well, but he is not there now. He has been informed that the 2027 World Cup dream is still on and that they haven't made any decisions yet. However, his playing depends on how Axar does because if Axar does really well, you might not go back towards Ravindra Jadeja," concluded Chopra.

India will play the first ODI on October 19 (Sunday). The second and third matches will be played on October 23 (Thursday) and October 25 (Saturday).