KL Rahul and Co. are set to lock horns with Australia once again, aiming to clinch the series in the highly anticipated 2nd ODI at Indore. In the previous clash, KL Rahul and his men carried forward their triumphant streak from the Asia Cup, securing a decisive 5-wicket victory over the Aussies.
Opting to field first, KL Rahul and Co. managed to restrict the Australian batsmen, allowing them to score 276 runs in their 50 overs. Despite a promising start by the Australian batsmen, none could capitalize on the initial momentum and convert it into a substantial score.
Mohammed Shami emerged as the star bowler for India, showcasing an exceptional performance by grabbing a remarkable five-wicket haul. In the pursuit of the target, the opening duo of Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad set a solid foundation, laying the groundwork for the triumph. Furthermore, a vital partnership in the middle overs between KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav sealed the deal for the Indian side.
THE VENUE FOR THE SECOND ODI
Holkar Cricket Stadium is renowned for its conducive environment for batsmen due to predictable bounce and close boundaries. However, given the expected cloudy weather in Indore on Sunday, there’s a possibility that bowlers, particularly fast bowlers, may find favorable conditions.
Average 1st Inns scores: 320
Average 2nd Inns scores: 267
TEAM PREVIEW
INDIA
KL Rahul and Co. continued their great form from the Asia Cup in the 1st ODI against the Aussies.
Mohammed Shami emerged as the star bowler for India, showcasing an exceptional performance by grabbing a remarkable five-wicket haul. The bowlers, including Ashwin, Bumrah, and Jadeja, delivered decent performances, contributing to the team’s success.
However, Shardul Thakur’s performance with the ball left room for improvement, prompting potential consideration of Mohammed Siraj for the 2nd ODI.
In the batting department, Gill and Gaikwad showcased their fine form with an impressive opening partnership. Their consistency will be crucial in maintaining India’s winning momentum.
Meanwhile, the seasoned campaigner Shreyas Iyer appeared slightly rusty and in need of more game time to regain his form, an aspect he’ll be keen to address in the upcoming ODI.
Suryakumar Yadav silenced critics by exhibiting his prowess in ODI cricket, forming a match-winning partnership with KL Rahul during the middle overs. His performance in the 1st ODI underlined his potential and he will aim to continue this form in the forthcoming match as well.
PROBABLE XI OF INDIA v AUSTRALIA:
Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (c) (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj,
AUSTRALIA
On the flip side, Australia finds themselves in a precarious position ahead of the World Cup, having suffered four consecutive ODI defeats.
Despite strong starts by key batsmen like Warner, Smith, Labuschagne, Cameron Green, and Jos Inglis, their inability to convert these promising beginnings into substantial scores remains a concern.
As the Aussies regroup for the 2nd ODI, the return of Alex Carey and Josh Hazlewood is expected to bolster their lineup. Carey’s return will necessitate Inglis to make way, while Hazlewood’s experience will provide a much-needed boost to the bowling department.
In a bid to rejuvenate their performance, Australia is keen on addressing their recent batting challenges and putting up a stronger fight in the upcoming match.
PROBABLE XI OF AUSTRALIA v INDIA:
David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey (wk), Mathew Short, Adam Zampa, Pat Cummins (c), Josh Hazlewood
PREDICTION FOR THE MATCH
Looking at the current form of both the sides KL Rahul and His men will be favourites entering into the game. At the same time, Aussies can’t be taken for granted who have a long and threatening batting line up which can dismantle any bowling line up on the given day
Backing India to beat Australia and seal the series 2-0