India and Australia open their ODI World Cup 2023 campaign in Chennai on Sunday, October 8. The clash between two cricket stalwarts and tournament favourites is a much-anticipated one. Here’s a look at the best combined XI for the clash.
IND vs AUS: Best Combined XI
Rohit Sharma: The Indian skipper is known for his impeccable timing and ability to convert starts into big scores. He has a remarkable record of multiple double centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
David Warner: Alongside Rohit, explosive Australian opener David Warner makes his place, renowned for his aggressive batting style and incredible power-hitting ability. He has been a vital component of Australia's cricketing success and has consistently been among the top run-scorers in international cricket.
Virat Kohli: Virat Kohli, one of the modern era's greatest batters, will slot in at number three. He is widely celebrated for his incredible consistency and extraordinary fitness. He has led the Indian cricket team with distinction and is known for his passion and aggression on the field.
Mitch Marsh: At number four, Mitchell Marsh, a versatile Australian all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball will take his place. He provides balance to the team and is valuable for his ability to break partnerships as a bowler and provide handy runs.
Ishan Kishan: Ishan Kishan is a promising young Indian wicketkeeper-batsman known for his aggressive stroke play and adaptability. He has shown immense potential in limited-overs cricket and is considered one of India's rising stars. He deserves a place in this combined XI.
Glenn Maxwell: Glenn Maxwell with his explosive batting and inventive shots will be a crucial part of the middle order. He is equally effective as a bowler and is often called upon to deliver crucial overs for his team.
Ravindra Jadeja: Ravindra Jadeja, an Indian all-rounder, is a brilliant fielder, a potent spinner, and a handy lower-order batsman. His exceptional athleticism and consistency make him a key player for India in all formats. He is a must-have in this combined XI.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Ravichandran Ashwin is a highly skilled Indian off-spinner known for his tactical brilliance and ability to outsmart batters. He has been India's premier spinner for years and contributes significantly with both bat and ball. His inclusion in the ODI World Cup squad was a last-minute call. But, his experience will see him in this combined XI.
Mitchell Starc: Mitchell Starc, the lethal Australian fast bowler who generates incredible pace and swing will spearhead the bowling attack. His ability to deliver crucial wickets upfront and in the death overs makes him a potent force in the bowling department.
Jasprit Bumrah: Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah renowned for his unorthodox action and deadly yorkers will partner with Starc. He is often regarded as one of the world's best fast bowlers, known for his ability to excel in all formats.
Josh Hazlewood: The final piece of the puzzle will be Josh Hazlewood, a consistent Australian fast bowler known for his accuracy and ability to maintain pressure on the opposition. He forms a formidable pace trio with Bumrah and Starc and will play a pivotal role in the bowling attack.