In the first ODI match of the three-match series, India will take on Australia at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali tomorrow, i.e., September 22 at 1:30 PM IST.
Following the victory in the Asia Cup 2023, Team India are now focused on the ultimate prize in cricket, the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. But, prior to that, the team faces another challenge, and maybe the finest preparation for the biggest stages of the game, a three-match ODI series against the mighty Australians. KL Rahul will lead the series for the first two matches, with Rohit Sharma taking over in the third. Ravichandran Ashwin will also make his first ODI appearance in over 20 months. The third ODI will also see the return of Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. While the test for batters still continues, India’s bowling department seems rather secure, with Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah leading from the front, with a few spinners in Kuldeep and Ravindra Jadeja aiding them. This competition will address India’s remaining minor problems, allowing them to focus and be fully prepared for the World Cup.
Australia comes into this series after a tumultuous five-match ODI series against South Africa. Although they won the first two matches, their situation gradually deteriorated, resulting in a disastrous final encounter. Australia has announced an 18-man squad for this series, with Pat Cummins regaining captaincy responsibilities after missing the South Africa series. Travis Head will miss the World Cup owing to a left-hand fracture suffered in the fourth ODI against South Africa. Marnus Labuschagne, the South Africa series’ highest run-scorer, is on the roster and could possibly replace Head in the World Cup squad. In the bowling department, Josh Hazelwood, Mitchell Starc, and the rest of the team will also gear up for their biggest challenge, which will benefit them even more in the marquee event.
Head-to-Head:
India and Australia have played each other in 146 ODIs. India have won 54 of these 146 games, while Australia have triumphed on 82 occasions. Ten matches also ended without any result.
Where to watch:
TV: Sports18
OTT: JioCinema