India vs Australia, fourth ODI: Preview, Dream XI and more
The Indian cricket team will look to bounce back against Australia in the fourth encounter of the five-match series on Sunday. Virat Kohli's side leads the series 2-1 at the moment. Notably, India lost the third ODI in Ranchi by 32 runs. There is plenty at stake with Australia being in a must-win scenario to level the series. Here is our detailed match preview.
Dhoni rested, fans excited to watch Pant in action
After the third ODI encounter, India's batting coach Sanjay Bangar confirmed that MS Dhoni will be rested for the final two matches. This means that Rishabh Pant will get the opportunity to stake a claim and show his credentials. Pant is still not sure of a berth in the Indian squad for the 2019 World Cup. It's a massive chance to get some runs.
KL Rahul deserves a chance to show his mettle
Besides Pant, another player that is awaiting to show his mettle in ODIs is KL Rahul. The top order batsman was sensational in the T20Is. He is expected to be given the opportunity in place of either Rohit Sharma or Shikhar Dhawan. Both the established openers have struggled in this series. Rahul could bring that element of freshness and provide some stability.
Rayudu in focus, Bhuvi likely to come in
Ambati Rayudu has been terrible in this ongoing series and hasn't provided the shield expected. It's his inconsistency that is hurting Team India. Rayudu will need to make this chance count and take the pressure off Kohli. In the bowling department, Mohammed Shami might be given a rest and Bhuvneshwar Kumar could come in. India will look to attack with in-form Kuldeep Yadav.
Australia will be keen to build on their Ranchi win
The good news for Australia is that skipper Aaron Finch has hit some form with the bat. He scored a sublime 93 in Ranchi and will want to continue in the same vein. Aussies will be hoping to see Shaun Marsh put up a strong show. He has struggled in the series. Adam Zampa is Australia's main weapon and they will rally around him.
IND vs AUS: Here's our choice of the Dream XI
Aaron Finch and Usman Khawaja get the backing in this fantasy XI side. In-form Virat Kohli leads this XI and he is followed by KL Rahul and wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey. We have gone with two all-rounders. Glenn Maxwell is the vice-captain. Kedar Jadhav lends solid support. Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins are the two pacers. Adam Zampa and Kuldeep Yadav are quality spinners.
Timing, TV listing and India's performances at this venue
The fourth 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 Sunday. One can stream the match live on Hotstar. The match will be held at the Punjab Cricket Association, IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. India have played 14 ODI here. They have won 10 and lost four matches.
