Ind vs Aus 2019: Australia's predicted playing XI for the 1st ODI
Australia will take on India in a 5-match ODI series after successfully trumping the hosts 2-0 in the two-match T20I series. While the first match was a humdinger after initially being a one-sided game, the second one was a 'Maxwell Show' as the Aussie batsman smashed his way to a 55-ball 113 to lead the Aussies to victory.
KL Rahul was the most improved player for India in the series and Maxwell's rise in form will certainly be applauded by the Australian side. The concerns for India come in the form of Rishabh Pant and Dhawan's batting and skipper Finch's poor form is a major cause for concern in the Australian side.
The 1st ODI is to be played on 2nd March 2019 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad. The hosts will want to get a win under their belt and show some confidence. Rahul is likely to continue as opener and India will rotate between Dhawan and Rohit.
Australia will want to continue their good form and their pacers will want to seize control of the match as they've been very impressive.
Let's take a look at Australia's predicted playing XI for the 1st ODI.
Openers- D'arcy Short and Aaron Finch
D'arcy Short and Aaron Finch are expected to open the batting for the Australian side in the 1st ODI. Short showed positive signs in both the innings and timed the ball exquisitely in the 2nd T20I. He has made few good contributions in the past and this is the right time for his ODI comeback.
Aaron Finch, the Aussie skipper had a poor time in the ODI series and needs to find his form in the one-dayers. He demoted himself to No.3 to accommodate Marcus Stoinis at the top and with the change in format, he can go back to his preferred position and look to make some runs.