India defeated Australia in the first ODI at Mohali. However, Australia is a strong team and they cannot be taken lightly. The next match is at Indore, which is a good batting track. The Aussies could actually enjoy playing here. That said, they will be making some changes before the next game. On that note, here, we take a look at two changes Australia could make for the second ODI against India.
1) Alex Carey for Josh Inglis
Alex Carey is an important part of the Australian Team. While his experience behind the stumps is well-known, as a finisher, as well, he is very important to the squad. Also, a left-hander in the middle-order is something that Australia misses and hence, Carey is important in this regard.
Unless there is an injury issue, Carey has to play for Josh Inglis in the next encounter. He would add greater balance to the setup. If Australia wants to continue with Inglis, they could drop someone like Short, as well to include Carey.
2) Mitchell Starc for Matthew Short
Mitchell Starc for Matthew Short is one of the changes Australia could make for the second ODI against India. Before the series started, it was announced that Mitchell Starc would miss the first ODI. Assuming he is fit and available, Australia will include Starc straightaway in the playing XI.
The Aussies had an interesting combination for the first ODI. They went ahead with batting depth and relied on Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Short and Cameron Green to complete 20 overs. One some days, especially on a batting track such as in Indore, this could backfire. While it is hard to drop Short and Green, Short only made his ODI debut recently and is not a part of the World Cup squad. Yes, Australia would be short of a spinner but Starc is someone who should not be waiting a lot on the bench.
