In a highly anticipated showdown during the ICC World Cup 2023, two cricketing powerhouses, Team India and Australia, both former champions, are set to clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on the 8th of October, Sunday.
As both teams look to gain momentum for the remainder of the tournament, this upcoming game is crucial for them both. India defeated Australia 2-1 in a thrilling three-match One-Day International series that took place just last month. Fans can expect an exciting matchup in the near future owing to the star-studded lineups on both sides. Here in this article, we will talk about the predicted playing XI for India on Sunday against Australia.
IND vs AUS: India’s Predicted Playing XI vs Australia
1. Rohit Sharma (C) :
Having Rohit Sharma as the opening batsman is crucial because it increases India’s chances of scoring with a good run rate, especially on a challenging pitch in Chennai. Rohit, who is captaining the team in his first World Cup match, is determined to provide India with a strong beginning.
2. Ishan Kishan :
While Gill is the preferred opener, his availability for Sunday’s match is uncertain due to his battle with dengue. Consequently, Ishan Kishan could be in line for an opportunity at the top of the order if Gill is unable to play. Kishan, a left-handed batsman in excellent form, has typically batted in the middle-order, but he possesses the flexibility to step up as an opener in Gill’s absence. This adjustment would also provide India with the advantage of a left-right batting combination at the opening partnership.
3. Virat Kohli :
Virat Kohli produced an incredible revival in the third one-day international against Australia by scoring a half-century while leading the chase. He continued to perform well in the Asia Cup, where he showed off his talent. Virat Kohli is without a doubt an essential component of India’s top order, as evidenced by his steady success over the previous ten years. In the last ten years or more, he has unquestionably been India’s most dependable and consistent batsman.
4. Shreyas Iyer :
Shreyas Iyer showcased his prowess during the ODI series against Australia, notably with a brilliant century to his name. His proficiency against spin bowling makes him a valuable asset, especially in conditions like Chennai, where spin plays a pivotal role. Iyer’s ability to adopt an aggressive approach against spinners underscores his significance as a key player in the Indian middle order.
5. KL Rahul (Wk) :
Having KL Rahul in the middle-order has unquestionably bolstered India’s batting lineup. His resurgence in the Indian team has been quite remarkable. Rahul’s role becomes pivotal for India in the event of a stumble by the top-order. His recent impressive performances against Australia serve as a promising sign, and he’ll undoubtedly aim to maintain that level of form going forward.
6. Hardik Pandya :
Hardik Pandya, the exceptional all-rounder, is set to make his return after being absent from three ODIs against Australia. However, it’s worth noting that he was in splendid form during the Asia Cup, displaying excellence with both bat and ball. His presence in the team significantly bolsters its overall balance.
7. Ravindra Jadeja :
Ravindra Jadeja’s significance is set to grow even more due to his extensive tenure with CSK in Chennai over the past decade. His familiarity with the pitch’s behavior is a valuable asset in aiding the bowlers. Jadeja’s bowling prowess is poised to play a pivotal role, and his batting lower down the order may be essential, especially when India encounters challenging pitch conditions.
Also Read: Why Indian Captain Rohit Sharma Left Bowling In The International Cricket
8. Ravichandran Ashwin :
Ravichandran Ashwin, the seasoned off-spinner, is set to grace the Chennai pitch, his hometown, with his presence. His roots in Chennai make him the local hero, and India has high hopes for his performance. Ashwin’s recent display of skill, with four wickets in two matches against Australia, poses a formidable challenge for the team in yellow.
9. Kuldeep Yadav :
Kuldeep Yadav is set to play a pivotal role for India on the spin-friendly Chennai pitch. His standout performance as the Asia Cup’s Most Valuable Player, where he secured the highest number of wickets for the team, underscores his importance. In the year 2023, Kuldeep continues to lead the wicket-taking charts for India, making his form a critical factor, especially during the middle overs.
10. Jasprit Bumrah :
Jasprit Bumrah is set to spearhead India’s bowling attack during the power-play and in the crucial death overs. As the team’s primary strike bowler, his reputation as a formidable threat is well-known to Australia. Bumrah has displayed impressive form since his return, establishing himself as one of India’s most influential players in the 2023 World Cup.
11. Mohammed Siraj :
Mohammed Siraj is poised to serve as India’s secondary fast bowler, adding to the team’s arsenal of strike bowlers. His recent performances have been a significant contributing factor to India’s success. Siraj possesses the ability to generate substantial bounce off the pitch, and his prowess with swing makes him a unique and impactful bowler.
Predicted India’s Playing XI vs Australia:
Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
