Australia on Brink of Historic ODI Sweep vs. India
Australia is poised to make cricket history as they target a clean sweep against India in the third ODI in Chennai. With a commanding 2-0 lead, the visitors have outplayed India in Mumbai and Visakhapatnam. A win in the final ODI on March 22 would mark the first bilateral ODI series whitewash against India on home soil since 2019.
Australia’s Dominance: Clinical Batting and Lethal Bowling
The Aussies have delivered a masterclass in aggressive cricket. In the first ODI, Mitchell Marsh’s 81 and a disciplined bowling attack crushed India by 10 wickets. The second ODI saw Mitchell Starc’s fiery 5/53 skittle India for 117, chased down in just 11 overs by Travis Head’s 51*.
India’s middle-order struggles, compounded by injuries to Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, have been exposed. Starc’s swing, combined with Australia’s relentless pace, has left the hosts reeling.
India’s Woes: Batting Collapses and Bowling Concerns
India’s top order—Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill—has faltered, while KL Rahul’s inconsistent form adds to the crisis. Without Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling attack lacks teeth. With the 2023 World Cup nearing, India faces tough selection calls: persist with seniors or blood new talent?
Chenhai Decider: Spin vs. Pace Battle
The MA Chidambaram Stadium’s spin-friendly pitch could favor India’s Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. However, Australia’s Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith excel against spin, and Starc’s reverse swing remains a threat.
Key Players to Watch
- Mitchell Starc (AUS): 9 wickets in 2 games—can he complete a dream series?
- Virat Kohli (IND): Needs a big knock to revive India’s hopes.
- Glenn Maxwell (AUS): Returns from injury; his all-round skills could be pivotal.
- Kuldeep Yadav (IND): Chennai’s turners might amplify his wrist-spin magic.
Final Prediction: History or Redemption?
Australia is primed for a 3-0 sweep, but India’s pride is at stake. A turnaround would require top-order fireworks and spin mastery. Either way, fans await a thrilling climax!
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