In less than a week after returning from South Africa, a full-strength Australia take on New Zealand in the first leg of the limited-overs series that starts tomorrow, with an ODI at Sydney Cricket Ground. Of course, the ODI series does not carry much relevance but the three T20Is that will follow will hold much importance. Australia had a rough tour of South Africa and lost all three ODIs – they did win T20I series 2-1.

On the other hand, New Zealand made a spectacular comeback against India and won all three ODIs after being whitewashed in the T20Is. They also won both the Test matches that followed. The visiting team has been bolstered by the comeback of pacers Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry.

Conditions –

The track at SCG is best for batting and expect both the teams to put up huge totals on the board. Both the captains would want to bowl first after winning the toss.

Here is the likely playing XI of both the teams –

Australia:

Mitchell Starc, who missed the third ODI against South Africa, should be back into playing XI for the series opener. Both Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood might partner him. D’arcy Short and Ashton Agar should be part of playing XI since the pitch is quite slow.

Likely playing XI: Aaron Finch, David Warner, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, D Arcy Short, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

New Zealand:

The visiting team will have Trent Boult back as the leader of their pace attack. Kyle Jamieson, who had a dream run against India, might be forced to sit out due to the presence of seniors.

Likely playing XI: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi

My Dream11 team for AUS vs NZ 1st ODI:

Aaron Finch, Martin Guptill (Captain), Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Marnus Labuschagne (Vice-Captain), Alex Carey, Colin de Grandhomme, D’Arcy Short, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Lockie Ferguson