Ashwin Returns as India Opts to Bowl First in 1st ODI Against Australia
Ravichandran Ashwin makes a comeback after nearly 20 months as India’s stand-in captain KL Rahul chooses to bowl in the series opener against Australia.
In a highly anticipated moment for Indian cricket fans, Ravichandran Ashwin has returned to the Indian ODI team after an absence of nearly 20 months. KL Rahul, serving as the stand-in captain, won the toss and decided to bowl first in the opening match of the ODI series against Australia at the PCA Stadium.
Ashwin, who last featured in an ODI against South Africa in January 2022, is among the notable inclusions in the playing eleven. Joining him are Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, and Mohammed Shami.
Rahul explained his decision to bowl first, citing Mohali’s reputation as a ground conducive to successful chases. The pitch report also indicated a placid surface for the contest on Friday.
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“Historically a good chasing ground, that’s about it. There are a few boxes that we need to tick, and the boxes that we’ve ticked, we need to keep doing it better. One more challenge, facing the best team in the world, so it’s good to play against them. They are a very competitive team, so we’ve enjoyed playing against them. It’s always a great challenge,” Rahul remarked.
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Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, is back in action after missing the South Africa tour due to a wrist injury. He expressed that he too would have chosen to bowl first. The match also marks the ODI debut of Matt Short, with Josh Inglis taking over wicketkeeping duties in place of a rested Alex Carey.
“Good to be back; it’s been a while since I’ve been here. Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell are not quite ready. I would’ve bowled first as well but don’t really mind. It’s nice and sunny out here. Warner and Marsh will open the batting. Smith, Marnus, and Inglis to follow,” Cummins added.
Here are the playing XIs for the match:
India: Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (captain & wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Shami.
Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Short, Pat Cummins (captain), Sean Abbott, and Adam Zampa.