"I think it would have been a very different series" - Michael Clarke's massive claim on India missing two players in AUS vs IND 2025 series

Former captain Michael Clarke claimed that the recently concluded ODI series between Australia and India could have been very different. He reckoned that the visitors missed two key players who could have made a significant difference.

India lost the three-match series 1-2. They opted to rest ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the ODIs. Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya sustained a left quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup 2025 and was ruled out of the entire Australia tour.

Michael Clarke reckoned that it would take some time for this Indian team to acclimatise to the Australian conditions.

"India is a different team with Bumrah. I think that's the other thing we're seeing. They haven't played a lot of cricket together, this Indian T20 team, so it takes a bit of time to get used to Australian conditions. But I feel when Bumrah is playing, they're a different team and that is what they missed in the one-day series. If they had Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, I think it would have been a very different series," he said on 'Beyond23 Cricket Podcast'.

India's decision to rest Bumrah for the ODIs backfired as they lost the series. Harshit Rana, who played in place of Bumrah, did pick up six wickets from three matches. However, it could not lead the hosts to win the series.

However, Bumrah is part of the ongoing five-match T20I series. Michael Clarke reflected that being able to make the difference between victory and defeat made the ace Indian pacer so good.

"Seeing him bowl in these T20s, he's one of a kind. He's actually that good. To be an individual player and to be able to be so defining in a win or a loss shows how good a player he is," he added.

While he has bagged only two wickets from as many games so far, he has been effective enough. He has averaged 26 with an economy of 6.50.

---

Michael Clarke reflects on upcoming matches in the T20I series

Michael Clarke also reflected that the T20I series was placed well. The first game was washed out while Australia won the second. However, India bounced back in the third match to level the series 1-1. With two more games remaining, the series is evenly placed.

"It's going to be good now. Now that both teams have won a game, particularly India getting that win, I think it does their confidence a world of good. Australia need to find ways. Playing at the Gabba suits Australia's style more so than the Gold Coast. I think the wicket will be slower there. Interesting to see if they make any changes. The series is in a good place," he said.

The fourth T20I will be played at the Gold Coast on Thursday, November 6. Brisbane will host the final T20I of the series on Saturday, November 8.

Follow IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates, News & Biddings at Sportskeeda. Get the fastest updates on Mega-Auction and cricket news

Edited by Rishab Vm