Australia’s possible XI for World Cup match vs India – CricBlog

Cricket News: Australia’s possible XI for World Cup match vs India | What will Australia’s XI be against India at Chennai?

Australia’s quest for a sixth World Cup title begins with a difficult test against favourites India at Chepauk. The Australians won at the ground back in March, but a World Cup opener is a whole different challenge indeed.

Part of the challenge is selecting a balanced XI. Spin is expected to play a key role, but Australia also need to get their death bowling in order. So, there is the possibility of three specialist fast bowlers for greater reliability.

Australia’s possible XI for 2023 World Cup match vs India at Chennai: 1. David Warner, 2. Mitchell Marsh, 3. Steve Smith, 4. Marnus Labuschagne, 5. Alex Carey (wk), 6. Glenn Maxwell, 7. Cameron Green, 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Pat Cummins (c), 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood

There are a couple of big selection calls for Australia to make. Alex Carey’s shaky form and Josh Inglis’ promising knocks in the warm-ups gives the selectors a decision. However, the team management may opt for Carey given he provides a left-handed option in the middle order.

Also, Marcus Stoinis or Cameron Green? Australia could go with both, but that would mean either one less specialist batsman (Marnus Labuschagne) or bowler (Josh Hazlewood). Given Labuschagne has been in excellent form, Hazlewood provides another strong powerplay and death bowling option, and Stoinis’ struggles early against spin, the thinktank could go for Green who looked in decent touch in the warm-up against Pakistan.

Also, reports are emerging that Stoinis is under an injury cloud. Such news raises questions over Australia’s schedule, with the team playing 13 white-ball matches since late August.

Glenn Maxwell is key for Australia

Looking at the makeup of Australia’s squad and possible XI, a lot will rest on Glenn Maxwell. The dynamic all-rounder has been in excellent touch with the ball since his return from injury, and struck 77 (71) against Pakistan.

If Australia are to go far in this World Cup, one feels Maxwell needs to have a big tournament, starting with Chennai against India on a pitch expected to provide some assistance for the spinners.