IND vs AUS 2023: No Kishan And Shardul As Wasim Jaffer Predicts India’s Playing XI For Second ODI

Previewing the second ODI between India and Australia, former India batsman Wasim Jaffer has predicted the changes the hosts could make to their lineup.

The Men in Blue are leading the three-match series after winning the first ODI in Mumbai by 5 wickets. India would be looking to win the second ODI and clinch the series on Sunday (March 19). The hosts would definitely be bolstered by the return of their skipper Rohit Sharma who missed the first ODI due to family reasons.

In his absence, Ishan Kishan was given a chance to open the innings with Shubman Gill but the youngster failed to grab the opportunity. And Wasif Jaffer understandably believes that Kishan will have to make way for Rohit in the playing eleven for the second ODI after scoring 2 runs off 8 balls in the first ODI.

“I think probably Ishan Kishan because it will be a like-for-like swap. Rohit Sharma will open the innings and Kishan will pave the way for him,” Wasim Jaffer told ESPNcricinfo.

Speaking further, the former India opener said that he also expects Washington Sundar or Axar Patel to come in for Shardul Thakur after the latter was not used much by stand-in captain Hardik Pandya in the first ODI.

“I also think Shardul Thakur bowled only two overs in the match and the pitch assisted fast bowlers heavily. If they don’t use Shardul Thakur a lot, it makes sense to play either Washington Sundar or Axar Patel as they also provide the batting stability,” said Jaffer.

Wasim Jaffer expects better show from Australia:

Wasim Jaffer also said that he expects Australia to come up with a better performance in the second ODI. The visitors were bowled out for just 188 from 129 for 2 in the series-opener. With the ball, they had India reeling at 83 for 5 but the hosts went on to chase down the total with ease in the end.

“No doubt that a team needs runs from the top-order batters in one-day cricket and I’m sure they will deliver an improved performance in the second game,” said Jaffer.

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