After the exhilarating Test series, Australia and West Indies will lock horns in the three-match ODI series. The AUS vs WI 1st ODI is scheduled to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on February 02, Friday. While this will be Australia’s first ODI match since their ODI World Cup triumph, they have rested several first team players for the series. West Indies, on the other hand, will be a motivated lot after clinching that historic Test win against the Aussies in Gabba.
AUS vs WI 1st ODI Preview
In Pat Cummins’ absence, Steve Smith will captain the Australian ODI team, with Travis Head serving as his deputy. Glenn Maxwell and Jhye Richardson have been ruled out of the series. Star BBL players such as Jake Fraser McGurk and Xavier Bartlett have won their first international call-ups. Nathan Ellis is out with an injury, with Will Sutherland replacing him.
Shai Hope will serve as the Windies’ captain, and Alzarri Joseph will be his deputy. Two uncapped players are included in the 15-man roster in the form of Guyanese keeper-batter Tevin Imlach and Grenadian hitter Teddy Bishop. Brandon King, Sherfane Rutherford, Shimron Hetmyer, and Yannic Cariah are the four players missing out on the squad.
AUS vs WI 1st ODI Pitch Report
The pitch at the MCG is well-balanced and provides something to both bowlers and batters. The new ball can be expected to bounce and seam, making it difficult for the opening batters. However, as the match progresses, the pitch is likely to get easier to bat on. Spinners won’t get a lot of turn and will need to be creative.
AUS vs WI 1st ODI Weather Report
The temperature is likely to remain around 16 degrees Celsius during the day, making it an ideal day for cricket. However, the humidity of 58 per cent might create a problem for players. The wind speed is expected to be around 16 km per hour.
AUS vs WI 1st ODI Probable XI
Australia: Matt Short, Travis Head, Steve Smith ©, Marnus Labuschagne, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wk), Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Sean Abbott, Lance Morris
West Indies: Alick Athanaze, Justin Greaves, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope © (wk), Kavem Hodge, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Oshane Thomas, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie
