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As the highly anticipated clash between India and Australia in the ICC Cricket ODI World Cup 2023 draws near, Aaron Finch, the former Australian World Cup winner, and captain, has offered an honest assessment of the Indian batters, particularly focusing on the potential opening partnership.
The high-stakes encounter, slated for Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, marks the opening game for both teams, and its outcome could set the tone for the tournament. This clash carries immense significance as both teams are considered top contenders to lift the coveted trophy. India and Australia have a history of producing thrilling encounters in past World Cup editions, adding to the excitement surrounding this fixture.
Recent ODI series and India’s challenge
To add to the pre-match drama, both teams recently locked horns in a three-game ODI series, which India clinched with a 2-1 victory. The outcome of this series has only intensified the competition between the two cricketing giants. India, the tournament hosts, will be keen to commence their World Cup campaign on a winning note. However, they face a challenge with star opener Shubman Gill diagnosed with dengue just days before the crucial clash. His absence could pose a significant setback for the Indian team.
Ishan Kishan’s potential role
In response to this potential setback, the Indian team is likely to turn to Ishan Kishan as Rohit Sharma‘s opening partner. While Gill’s absence is undoubtedly a blow, Kishan offers a right-hand and left-hand combination at the top, which can pose its own set of challenges for the opposition.
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Aaron Finch’s assessment on both Indian batters
Speaking to Star Sports, Finch has sheds light on Men in Blue’s batting, particularly focusing on Kishan. Finch pointed out Kishan’s vulnerability to outswing deliveries, primarily due to his front-foot movement. Nevertheless, the 36-year-old also acknowledged Kishan’s potential to deliver a strong performance once he settles at the crease.
“Starc and Hazlewood. I would go with that selection if I have to bowl to the left-hander. The outswing to Ishan because I still think he has a few technical faults he still hasn’t quite ironed out over the last while. His front foot closes up quite a bit so if he can swing it early, they can get him. Once he gets in, he moves beautifully. But just those initial balls though, he tends to get vulnerable,” Finch said.
Interestingly, Finch suggested that Australia might find it more comfortable bowling to Kishan during the powerplay as opposed to facing Gill, who has a strong recent record against Australia in ODIs.
“Shubman Gill is someone who Australia at times really struggle to bowl to in any format because he has no weaknesses. He is somebody who can hit your best balls. He dominates spin, left-arm pacer, right-arm pace so I think that will be the only difference. Australia will be a little more comfortable bowling to Ishan Kishan in the Powerplay,” the Colac-born cricketer concluded.
