The announcement of India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia has created quite a buzz in the cricketing world. Here are some key takeaways and insights from the squad announcement and related developments:
- Leadership Change: KL Rahul is set to lead the Indian team in the first two ODIs, in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who will be rested for these matches. This demonstrates India’s focus on squad rotation and bench strength.
- Ashwin’s Return: Ravichandran Ashwin is making a comeback to the ODI format after a substantial gap. His performance in these matches will be closely watched, considering his significant experience and expertise.
- Axar Patel’s Fitness: Axar Patel’s fitness remains uncertain due to a left quadriceps injury. The team is hopeful that he will be fit for the third ODI, but his participation is still uncertain.
- Siraj’s Remarkable Performance: Mohammed Siraj’s standout performance in the Asia Cup final has earned him a prominent place in the Indian bowling lineup. His form and consistency will be vital in the upcoming series.
- Squad Rotation: The decision to rest key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav for the first two ODIs highlights India’s strategy of squad rotation and building bench strength ahead of the World Cup.
- Building Bench Strength: Rohit Sharma has emphasized the importance of building bench strength, acknowledging that all squad members need opportunities to play and gain experience.
- Australia’s Squad: Australia, too, has announced its squad for the ODIs, including key players like Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, and Mitchell Starc, making the series more competitive.
- Wasim Akram’s Concerns: Pakistan legend Wasim Akram has expressed concerns about the series, considering the tight schedule and the need to preserve players’ energy before the World Cup.
- Dress Rehearsal for the World Cup: This series serves as a dress rehearsal for India before the World Cup. It allows the team to assess players and fine-tune strategies ahead of the mega-tournament.
- Injury Woes for Australia: Australia is dealing with injury concerns, with all-rounder Aaron Hardie travelling as cover for Sean Abbott and Nathan Ellis. These injuries could impact Australia’s preparations for the World Cup.
Overall, the announcement of the India squad and the developments surrounding the series against Australia have generated significant excitement and anticipation among cricket enthusiasts. It will be interesting to see how the teams perform in these ODIs and how it shapes their preparations for the upcoming World Cup on Indian soil.
Squad for the first two matches:
KL Rahul (C), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Tilak Varma, Prasidh Krishna, R Ashwin, and Washington Sundar
Squad for the 3rd ODI:
Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj
IND vs AUS schedule:
The India vs Australia series gets underway from September 22. Here’s a look at the fixture and the venues:
1st ODI: September 22 in Mohali
2nd ODI: September 24 in Indore
3rd ODI: September 27 in Rajkot