6 players who have a point to prove in the upcoming tri-series

After a hard-fought four-match Test series between Australia and India which saw the hosts emerge 2-0 winners, both the sides are getting ready for the Carlton Mid One-Day International (ODI) tri-series which includes England as the third side. This series will help the teams finalise the remaining one or two spots up for grabs going into the World Cup. With many players fighting for form and opportunities, there is a lot to look forward to during the tri-series which begins on January 16 and ends on February 1.Let us have a look at 6 players who have a point to prove in the series: 

#6 Chris Woakes, England

During England’s tour of Sri Lanka recently, both James Anderson and Stuart Broad were rested, and the pace attack comprised of Chris Woakes in the company of Steven Finn and Chris Jordan/Harry Gurney. With Anderson and Broad now returning to lead England’s pace attack, the third slot is still to be finalised for England.

In their practice match against ACT Invitational XI yesterday, Anderson and Broad bowled 7 overs each and the remaining three quicks bowled 4 overs each which is well indicative of the fact that the third slot is still undecided. Woakes emerged as the highest wicket-taker during the tour of Sri Lanka with 14 wickets under his belt; this perhaps puts Woakes as the front runner for that spot.

Woakes, in fact, has past experience of playing in Australia, having made his ODI debut Down Under in 2011. He fared pretty well too, picking up 6 for 45 from 10 overs in just his 2nd ODI at Brisbane. England will hope for Woakes to come good in the tri-series and finalise their pace attack as quickly as possible. If Woakes doesn’t grab hold of his opportunities, either Steven Finn or Chris Jordan is likely to be the beneficiary.