Introduction
As India gears up to face Australia in the first One-Day International (ODI), head coach Rahul Dravid faces the intriguing task of striking the right balance between experimentation and workload management. With the regulars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav returning for the third ODI, India has the opportunity to test various combinations and provide crucial game time to certain players ahead of the World Cup. Let's explore the likely XI for India in the 1st ODI against Australia.
Opening Pair: Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill
With Rohit Sharma rested, Ishan Kishan is set to partner Shubman Gill at the top of the order. Kishan's aggressive batting style makes him an exciting prospect, while Gill has been consistent and is keen to make the most of his opportunities.
Middle Order: Tilak Varma and Shreyas Iyer
The absence of Virat Kohli leaves a gap at the No. 3 position. While the temptation to push Iyer up the order exists, Dravid seems likely to stick with the World Cup first-XI plan. This opens the door for young Tilak Varma, who may take on the No. 3 role. Shreyas Iyer, returning from a back injury, is expected to bat at No. 4, providing solidity to the middle order.
Suryakumar Yadav's Spot Confirmed
Despite modest ODI numbers, Suryakumar Yadav is set to retain his place in the squad for the World Cup. He will bat at No. 6 in the first two ODIs against Australia, aiming to solidify his position with a strong performance.
Spin Dilemma: Ashwin Over Sundar
In the spin department, the absence of Axar Patel due to injury has led to a choice between Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar. Ashwin, despite limited ODI appearances in recent years, is a seasoned campaigner with valuable experience. It's likely that Ashwin will be preferred as the lead spinner in the XI, providing his all-round skills.
Seam Bowling Choices
Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are set to spearhead the pace attack. However, Mohammed Shami is expected to play a part in the series, given that Bumrah and Siraj may not feature in all three matches.
Predicted India XI for 1st ODI vs Australia:
1. Ishan Kishan
2. Shubman Gill
3. Tilak Varma
4. Shreyas Iyer
5. KL Rahul (c/wk)
6. Suryakumar Yadav
7. Ravindra Jadeja
8. R Ashwin
9. Shardul Thakur
10. Jasprit Bumrah
11. Mohammed Siraj
Conclusion
The 1st ODI against Australia presents India with an opportunity to test various combinations and give valuable game time to certain players. With a mix of youth and experience, this Indian XI aims to strike the right balance between experimentation and preparation for the upcoming World Cup. Under the guidance of Rahul Dravid, the team will look to build a cohesive unit capable of competing at the highest level of ODI cricket.
