Indian Players Who Debuted vs Australia and Made an Impact – A Khelostar Cricket Spotlight

Making a debut for India is one of the greatest honors any cricketer can experience. But making that debut against Australia is a different challenge altogether—almost like stepping into fire. Australia’s cricket culture is known for its intensity, fitness, sharp pace attack, strategic field placements, and psychological pressure. For any debutant, the stage becomes a test of character as much as cricketing skill. Over the years, several Indian cricketers have not only embraced this challenge but turned their debut vs Australia into unforgettable statements.

In this Khelostar spotlight, we look at Indian players who debuted against Australia across formats and made an immediate impact from their very first match.

1. Mayank Agarwal – Calm and Classy at the MCG (Test, 2018)

When India needed solidity at the top during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Mayank Agarwal was brought in and handed a debut at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Against the new-ball threat of Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins, he showed maturity beyond expectations. Scoring 76 in the first innings, Agarwal gave India a strong foundation and helped shape a historic Test win.
His approach—playing late, leaving smartly, and choosing calculated aggression—signaled that India had found an opener capable of succeeding overseas.

Highlight: 76 on Boxing Day Test debut, pivotal to India’s path to victory.

2. Thangarasu Natarajan – From Net Bowler to a National Inspiration (2020–21 Tour)

Few stories are as cinematic as T. Natarajan’s journey. Selected as a net bowler, injuries in the squad opened the door for him to debut in ODI, T20I, and Test cricket—all on the same tour, an unprecedented achievement in Indian cricket history.

• ODI Debut (Canberra): 2 wickets, impressive control

• T20I Debut (Sydney): 3/30, yorkers under pressure

• Test Debut (Brisbane): Key breakthroughs in a historic win

His rise reflected resilience, patience, and the depth of Indian domestic cricket. His performances inspired countless young cricketers from small towns.

Highlight: First Indian to debut in all three formats on a single tour.

3. Jasprit Bumrah – The Beginning of India’s Fast-Bowling Era (2016)

When Jasprit Bumrah debuted in ODIs and T20Is in Australia in 2016, Indian cricket’s pace identity changed forever. His unique action, pinpoint yorkers, and calmness instantly stood out. Dismissing players like Warner and Faulkner on debut, he soon became India’s most reliable white-ball bowler.

His performance symbolized a new fast-bowling era, one in which India could challenge Australia at their own strength.

Highlight: 5 wickets across ODI and T20I debut matches.

4. Washington Sundar – The Composed All-Rounder at The Gabba (Test, 2021)

Originally part of the squad as net support, Washington Sundar was thrust into the playing XI for the decisive Test at Brisbane. Not only did he dismiss Steve Smith, but he also scored a crucial 62 with remarkable calmness under pressure.
His all-round contribution helped India secure one of their most historic Test series victories.

Highlight: 62 runs + key wickets in a series-deciding Test.

5. Yashasvi Jaiswal – Fearless New Generation (Test, 2024)

Yashasvi Jaiswal, with his aggressive yet elegant stroke-play, showed no hesitation against top Australian bowlers. His century on debut signaled the arrival of a fearless modern Indian batter who plays without intimidation and with complete freedom.

Highlight: Debut century vs Australia, showcasing skill and bold mindset.

The Bigger Picture – India’s Depth and Evolution

These impactful debuts reflect India’s growing bench strength and the confidence running through the system. The courage, technique, and temperament displayed by these debutants show that India not only competes against Australia—but thrives in the challenge.

As celebrated on Khelostar, such performances define eras, inspire fans, and shape cricketing legacy. With the next generation rising, the India-Australia rivalry will only continue to produce moments of courage, grit, and brilliance.