Win Projections to be updated soon
In an eagerly anticipated announcement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the Indian cricket squad for the upcoming Australia ODI series, set to commence on September 22, 2023. The announcement, made on September 18, 2023, brings forth a mix of experience and young talent, with KL Rahul leading the charge in the first two matches.
Rohit Sharma, the incumbent captain, and Virat Kohli will be taking a breather for the initial two encounters but are slated to return for the final game. This strategic rest aims to ensure the key players are in prime form for the crucial matches ahead.
One of the highlights of the squad announcement is the comeback of Ravichandran Ashwin to the ODI setup. Ashwin, known for his spin prowess, will lend valuable experience to the team. His presence will undoubtedly add depth to India’s bowling attack.
However, there remains a cloud of uncertainty over the fitness of Axar Patel, the talented all-rounder. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar expressed optimism about Patel’s recovery, hoping he would be available for the final ODI. Patel sustained an injury during the Asia Cup’s Super 4 encounter against Bangladesh.
The squad, a blend of established names and promising talents, reflects India’s preparation for the upcoming World Cup. Both India and Australia are considered strong contenders for the coveted title, and this series will serve as a crucial preparation ground for the mega-event.
The announced Squad
1st and 2nd ODIs:
- KL Rahul (Captain)
- 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
- Washington Sundar
3rd ODI:
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Suryakumar Yadav
- KL Rahul (wicketkeeper)
- Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Axar Patel*
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- R Ashwin
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
This squad announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans and experts alike, as India prepares to face off against a formidable Australian side. With the World Cup just around the corner, this series will serve as an essential dress rehearsal for both teams.
As the countdown to the series opener in Mohali begins, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting the clash between two cricketing giants, India and Australia, in what promises to be an exhilarating contest on the cricketing stage.