Australia are under pressure after losing the first game of the Border Gavaskar Trophy to India by 295 runs. Pat Cummins and his side were outwitted by India despite getting bowled out for just 150 runs in the first innings of the game. To add more misery Josh Hazlewood is set to be ruled out of the game due to injury.
One of the biggest worries for Australia has been their batting which has failed to fire this year. Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne who have done well over the years haven’t been able to score many runs in the Test format. David Warner’s retirement has seen Nathan McSweeney take over his spot and the right-handed batter is new to international cricket.
The bowling was wonderful in the first innings of the Perth Test but failed to fire in the second innings. One huge boost for the home side is the return of Scott Boland who is known for his nagging lines. The right-arm seamer was a thorn in India’s flesh during the WTC Final that was played in 2023.
Here is the likely Australia’s Playing XI vs India
Top order –
Usman Khawaja has loads of experience playing in Australia and the left-handed batter will be a key player for his side. Nathan McSweeney is a local lad and captains South Australia and has scored a lot of runs at this venue. Both batters will want to see out the opening burst from Indian bowlers and want to put decent runs on the board.
Middle Order –
Australian team management will be dependent on their two best batters to come good during the second game at Adelaide. Both Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith haven’t been in the greatest of forms but have scored runs in the Pink Ball Test matches previously. Local lad Travis Head holds the key for Australia as his destructive batting can change the course of the game.
Lower-order –
Mitchell Marsh will play a key role in the lower middle order with his brutal batting. The 33-year-old is also more than handy with the ball as seen during the Perth Test. Alex Carey is the third local player that will play the game for Australia. The left-handed batter will be crucial with the bat as well as behind the stumps. Pat Cummins will have to play a huge role with the ball just like he did 4 years ago and also do well with the bat.
Tail enders –
Mitchell Starc with 66 wickets is the best bowler in the history of Pink Ball Test matches. With his natural swing and pace, Starc can trouble any batters on his day. Scott Boland will be a constant threat for India with his ability to bowl the 4th and 5th stump line. Nathan Lyon has always loved bowling at Adelaide and will be a handful if the ball starts turning during the final few days of the match.
Australia XI vs India
Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland.
Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.