IND vs AUS Match Preview

As this will be the final international fixture prior to the commencement of the World Cup, it is highly probable that the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya will be reinstated in the playing eleven. With the majority of the players performing well, the team management will be faced with the arduous task of determining which players to exclude.

Shardul Thakur and Shubman Gill have been rested for this concluding ODI. In the case of Shardul Thakur, it is plausible that the management believes he has been afforded ample opportunities and is now contemplating a change in the squad.

Ravichandran Ashwin was the most outstanding bowler for India in the previous match, once again making a compelling argument for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. Shreyas Iyer, who had been grappling with his form due to an injury, scored a remarkable century to announce his return and is likely to retain his position.

Suryakumar Yadav has hit a purple patch at the opportune moment and brings an 'X' factor to the ODI team, rendering him almost indispensable.

Overall, the hosts are currently in a commendable position and will strive to build on their good form. In fact, the Indian team may be the strongest for this match and will provide an indication of the final composition of the team for the World Cup.

Despite possessing a number of quality players, Australia has encountered difficulties in identifying the optimal combination, which is a source of concern for the team management. David Warner has demonstrated a surge in form at a crucial juncture, having scored half-centuries in both of the team's previous matches. It is probable that he will open the batting alongside Mitchell Marsh.

The middle order comprises Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, both of whom have made promising starts but must convert them into substantial innings. Matthew Short has been afforded a couple of opportunities, but has failed to make an impact. Consequently, he is expected to be replaced by Glenn Maxwell for the upcoming fixture.

This addition augments the dynamism of the Australian middle-order and also provides a spin-bowling option during the middle overs. Given Cameron Green's struggles with both bat and ball, the role of Maxwell assumes even greater significance.

The bowlers have also encountered difficulties in performing to their potential. Spencer Johnson made his ODI debut in the previous match but was unable to secure any wickets. It is possible that he will be replaced by Mitchell Starc. Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Sean Abbott are expected to retain their positions, while Adam Zampa will be the sole full-time spinner.

Similar to India, Australia will field its strongest team for this match as well.

Weather Report

The weather will be warm with plenty of sunshine and the temperature is expected to remain around the 30-degree mark. 

Pitch Report

Just like in Indore, the pitch at Rajkot is expected to be a batting paradise. The average first-inning score on this ground is 312. The pitch is flat and there is very little movement for the bowlers early on. However, the pitch does slow down a bit as the match progresses and the spinners will come into play.

Notable stats

Rohit Sharma's excellent record against Australia

Rohit Sharma has scored 2251 runs against Australia at an average of 59.23. He has also scored 8 centuries which is the joint-highest from the current Indian squad.

Team News

There are no updates regarding injuries from either side. 

 

IND vs AUS Probable 11

IND Playing 11

  • Rohit Sharma (C)
  • Virat Kohli
  • Ishan Kishan
  • Shreyas Iyer
  • KL Rahul (Wk)
  • Suryakumar Yadav
  • Ravichandran Ashwin
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Mohammed Siraj
  • Mohammed Shami
  • Jasprit Bumrah

AUS Playing 11

  • David Warner
  • Steve Smith
  • Mitchell Marsh
  • Marnus Labuschagne
  • Alex Carey (Wk)
  • Glenn Maxwell
  • Mitchell Starc
  • Pat Cummins (C)
  • Josh Hazlewood
  • Adam Zampa
  • Marcus Stoinis
This is not the official playing 11 for the match. This is a prediction of the expected playing 11 for each team based on the writers analysis.

Dream11 Prediction

We are backing India to win this match. They have been clinical in their performance during the first two ODIs and given the form of most of its players, we expect them to continue doing well. India also has a good record at home against Australia, winning 5 of the last 7 matches, which should give them plenty of confidence. 

 

Top Picks

Virat Kohli: Kohli has scored 2172 runs against Australia at an average of 52.97. His knocks include 8 centuries.

Mohammed Shami: Mohammed Shami has taken 38 wickets against Australia, which is the most he has against any team in ODIs.

David Warner: David Warner is the best batsman for Australia in this series and has scored half-centuries in both matches so far. 

 

IND vs AUS Dream11 Team 1

Keeper: L Rahul

Batters: R Sharma, V Kohli (C), M Marsh, D Warner (VC), M Labuschagne, S Yadav

All-rounders: M Stoinis

Bowlers: J Bumrah, M Shami, R Ashwin

IND vs AUS Dream11 Prediction - OCB Team Prediction