India vs Australia, fifth ODI: Preview, Dream XI and more
The Indian cricket team has some serious work to do after losing two consecutive ODI matches against Australia in the five-match series. The series is tied at 2-2 at the moment and winner on Wednesday will take it all. Indian bowlers were hammered on Sunday in Mohali and the side couldn't defend 358 runs. Here is the detailed match preview.
Two strong shows will give Australia added belief
The Aussies are in a resurgence mode at the moment and two strong performances will give them added belief. The manner in which the middle order clicked in the third ODI will please skipper Aaron Finch. Australia have a real chance in ending their barren run as far an ODI series is concerned. Finch & Co. will be motivated to get the job done.
Aussies will rely upon the consistency of Usman Khawaja
Australia will bank upon the in-form Usman Khawaja at the top. He has been superb in laying the foundation. Also, the likes of Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell and Ashton Turner bring their own set of qualities. The worry though is the form of Shaun Marsh, whose poor form has continued. Finch's inconsistency is another problem. Australia have bowled well as a unit.
India have issues to address in batting
India could go in with the same playing XI and would want to get the maximum form their last ODI prior to the ICC World Cup 2019. The focus will be on KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, who threw away positive starts in the previous match. The middle order department is something that is continuing to bother India. Kohli will want a flawless show.
All eyes on Indian bowlers at the moment
Indian bowlers have been a bit flat in the last two matches. At times the bowling unit seemed to run out of ideas. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was too predictable in the previous game. Jasprit Bumrah hasn't quite hit the heights as well. The absence of Hardik Pandya has highlighted India's lack of a proper fifth bowler in the XI. The performances need to be better.
IND vs AUS: Here's our choice of the Dream XI
Vice-captain Usman Khawaja and Shikhar Dhawan get to open the batting in this fantasy XI side. Virat Kohli gets the nod as skipper and he is followed by Peter Handscomb and wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey. Ashton Turner adds solid depth. Glenn Maxwell and Vijay Shankar are the two all-rounders. Pat Cummins and Jasprit Bumrah are the leading pacers. Kuldeep Yadav is the lone spinner.
Timing, TV listing and India's performances at this venue
The fifth ODI between the two sides will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network. The match is set to start at 1:30 PM IST on Wednesday. One can stream the match live on Hotstar. The match will be held at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium in the capital. India have played 19 matches here (W 12, L 6, N/R 1).
