ODI series vs Australia vital for Rohit and Virat

THE THREE-MATCH ODI series in Australia, beginning in Perth today, is more significant for India than for the hosts.

- Tushar Bhaduri

While the reigning world champions in the 50-over format have bragging rights to protect against the team they beat so memorably on its home turf, against the odds, to win their sixth crown, it’s obvious that the Aussies have more than one eye on the Ashes commencing ina month’s time.

It's evident in the squad assembled for the games, made up basically of whoever was available. Even the Sheffield Shield matches have been prioritised over the ODIs, as they help their key players prepare for the clash with the Old Enemy for the urn the Aussies haven’t surrendered for a long time.

Skipper Pat Cummins is racing against time to be fit for the England series, ODI linchpins like Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell have retired from the format since the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, wicketkeeper Josh Inglis will miss at least the first two games of the ODI series as he recovers from a calf strain, leg-spinner Adam Zampa will miss the Perth game to be at home with his expecting wife, as will Alex Carey as he prepares for a Shield game in the buildup to the Ashes. Cameron Green has also been a late withdrawal due to injury concerns. Lest we forget, David Warner is not part of the scene either and Australia have struggled to find a suitable successor.