Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan believes that Australia has an added advantage in the ODI World Cup due to the number of all-rounders in their squad. Speaking on Cricbuzz ahead of India’s first ODI of the 3-match series vs Australia, Khan said that the Pat Cummins side are exceptionally well-balanced and are an extreme side.
“Australia have a great squad for the ODI World Cup,” Zaheer Khan said. “Especially they have long list of all-rounders which will be an added advantage for the side. Glenn Maxwell is also set for a return in the side. They have Cameron Green, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis. Cameron Green is one of their attacking top-order batters who do not let you settle in as a bowler. Sean Abbot is a great player as well and should further strengthen the squad.”
Khan went on to compare Australia’s all-rounders to India’s Hardik Pandya, saying that Australia’s depth in this department gives them a significant advantage.
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“In India we talk about Hardik Pandya being a huge plus for the side, and Australia have 2-3 of those and that’s why they will have the added advantage in the ODI World Cup,” Zaheer Khan said.
Australia, however, have some injury concerns on their side. Star opener Travis Head, who had been in fantastic form coming into the ODI World Cup, has been ruled out of the first half of the tournament after breaking his finger. Australia will also have Cummins, Steve Smith, and Glen Maxwell returning from respective injuries, and they will hope to sort out their combinations quickly going into the premier ICC tournament.
The team is coming off a 3-2 loss against South Africa in a 5-match ODI series. Captained by Mitchell Marsh, Australia lost the series despite taking a 2-0 lead after playing the first two matches.
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Despite their recent form, Australia is still one of the favorites to win the ODI World Cup. Their all-rounders give them a significant advantage, and they have a lot of experience in big tournaments. If they can stay fit and find their form, they will be a very tough team to beat.
Australia ODI World Cup Squad
Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc.
