Australia’s cricket team opted to bowl first after winning the toss in their one-day international (ODI) match against India at Optus Stadium in Perth. The match, held on November 5, 2023, features the debut of two players, Matt Renshaw and Mitch Owen, who are looking to make their mark in the 50-over format.
Under overcast conditions, Australia’s captain, Mitch Marsh, expressed optimism about the pitch. “It looks like a pretty good Perth Stadium wicket. Hopefully it’s hard and fast,” he stated. The decision to bowl first was influenced by the moisture in the air, with Marsh hoping his team could capitalize on these conditions.
Renshaw, who previously debuted in Test cricket in 2016, received his ODI cap alongside Owen, who is anticipated to bring his T20 prowess to the longer format. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper Josh Philippe stepped in for Josh Inglis, who did not recover in time from a calf strain. With Matthew Kuhnemann also included in the squad for his fifth ODI, Australia is adjusting its lineup to face a formidable Indian side.
India, led by captain Shubman Gill, also introduced a debutant, allrounder Nitish Reddy. Gill acknowledged the challenging weather conditions, stating, “I would have bowled first as well… it may be a stop and play game.” The Indian team aims to put runs on the board, hoping to set a competitive target.
The match marks a significant moment for Australian cricket as it unfolds during a busy summer schedule. Marsh highlighted the excitement surrounding the Australia-India rivalry. “It’s always a big build-up… hopefully we can get off to a good start.”
Notably, Australian allrounder Cameron Green has been ruled out for the three-match series following a minor side injury sustained during training. Selectors remain confident that he will return for upcoming Sheffield Shield matches before the Ashes opener in Perth, commencing on November 21, 2023.
This ODI series could also signify the last international appearances for veteran Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both players have retired from Test and T20 formats, raising questions about their participation leading up to the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa.
The teams are as follows:
Australia: Mitch Marsh (captain), Travis Head, Matt Short, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Mitchell Owen, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Ellis, Matt Kuhnemann, Josh Hazlewood.
India: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj.
As the match progresses, both teams will be looking to establish dominance early, with the weather conditions promising to play a crucial role in the outcome.
