Australia's top six to stay the same for India Tests
Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, has hinted at the possibility of retaining the top six batters from the previous Test season for the upcoming five-match series against India. However, he clarified that their batting order might not necessarily remain the same. This statement comes amid discussions about Steve Smith's position in the line-up following David Warner's retirement last season.
Smith's batting position remains uncertain
McDonald revealed that no final decision has been made regarding Smith's batting position. "While we've got an eye to it, we haven't made any firm decisions around that one," McDonald told SEN. This uncertainty stems from Smith's performance as an opener after Warner's retirement and the rise of Cameron Green, who scored an unbeaten 174 against the Black Caps at number four last season.
McDonald backs top 6 batters for India series
Despite the debate over Smith's position, his place in the team seems secure alongside Green, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Mitchell Marsh. McDonald expressed confidence in this lineup stating, "We've spoken about that, and we're still a big believer in the best six batters." He added that if these players are well-prepared and have a smooth run, they would be the best candidates to fill that role.
Australia prioritize India series over Pakistan
McDonald also disclosed Australia's strategy to prioritize the series against India. He suggested that Test players might be given a rest for the white-ball series against Pakistan before it, allowing them to participate in the first Test in the Sheffield Shield. The much-anticipated 5-match India series is set to start in Perth on November 22, with subsequent Tests scheduled for Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Australia's possible XI against India
With head coach McDonald stating that the top six will likely remain the same, here is the list of the possible playing for Australia against India when the two sides meet for the 1st Test match. Probable AUS XI: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh (c), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon.
Austalia's are 2nd in the World Test Championship 2023-25
Australia are currently placed second in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 standings with 62.50%. They have played 12 matches winning eight, losing three, and drawing one. India lead the standings with a PCT of 68.52% from their nine matches (W6 D2 L1). Notably, Australia beat India in the final of the 2021-23 WTC, claiming their maiden mace and completing trophy wins in all major ICC tournaments.
Australia's schedule for the remainder of 2024 season
The Aussies play against England in three T20Is and five ODIs starting tonight. The series will end on September 29. Australia then take on Pakistan in three T20Is and three ODIs from November 4 to November 18 at home. Later in the year, they play India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (five Tests) from November 22 to January 7.
