Australia, the reigning ODI World Cup champions, are set to unleash two debutants and a COVID-positive opener Josh Inglis in their bid to tame the high-flying West Indies in the first ODI at the MCG.
Skipper Steve Smith won the toss and opted to bowl first, throwing the spotlight on debutants Lance Morris and Xavier Bartlett, who will aim to impress with their pace. These two quicks mark a new era for Australian bowling as they step onto the field in the team’s first ODI since their World Cup victory last year.
However, the biggest talking point surrounds wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, who will open the batting alongside Travis Head despite testing positive for COVID-19. Inglis will operate under strict biosecurity protocols, using a separate dressing room and maintaining distance from his teammates, similar to how Cameron Green managed during the second Test against West Indies.
This unusual situation adds another layer of intrigue to the match, especially considering West Indies’ recent Test triumph – their first in Australia since 1997. While they lack the services of match-winner Shamar Joseph due to injury, the Windies are riding a wave of confidence under their new white-ball coach, Daren Sammy.
Here’s a look at the line-ups for both teams:
Australia: Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Steve Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Matt Short, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Lance Morris, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa.
West Indies: Justin Greaves, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (c), Kavem Hodge, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Hayden Walsh, Gudakesh Motie, Oshane Thomas.
Will Australia’s debutants shine despite the Josh Inglis situation? Can the Windies continue their winning streak on Australian soil? The first ODI promises an exciting encounter packed with questions and potential upsets.
