Ahead of the second ODI against India at Rajkot, the Aussie skipper has hinted the return of right-arm pacer Josh Hazlewood in the squad. The reason for bringing back the 29-year into the squad might be to share the workload of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.
The Aussies will definitely have their spirits high for the second ODI after thrashing the Indians for a 10 wickets victory in the first game. In this opening match at Mumbai, both Starc and Cummins bowled some nasty deliveries to grab five-wickets each and ended India’s innings for 255 runs. This target was easily chased down by Aaron Finch and David Warner with both scoring match-winning tons.
Talking about Josh Hazlewood, the youngster was snubbed to play at the World Cup, and will make his first ODI appearance since November 2018. His return to the team will strengthen the Aussies pace attack.
While speaking about Josh’s return, skipper Finch said, “Obviously, with back-to-back games and pretty quick- and a reasonably heavy Test load- I am sure Josh will come in for one of them at some point.” This statement raised the question about whom amongst Starc and Cummins will be rested for the second ODI.
To clarify his statement Finch added, “It will be a mix and match whether it’s Patty or Starc.”
India will surely be in a mood for revenge after the devastating loss they faced in the first ODI. Even Shikhar Dhawan said in his interview post the loss that India is aiming for a comeback.