The opening ODI clash between India and Australia in Perth on October 19 is set to feature the One-Day International debuts of two Australian players: Matt Renshaw and Mitchell Owen. Matt Renshaw, 29, will finally make his ODI debut after appearing in 14 Tests since his international introduction nearly a decade ago. His call-up is a direct result of his outstanding form in white-ball cricket, highlighted by a significant tally of 248 runs at an average of 82.66 in the series against Sri Lanka A. Renshaw also boasts a strong List A record with 2794 runs at 41.08.
Mitchell Owen is the other player set to receive his ODI cap, rewarded for his powerful batting, including a blistering century off 48 balls against South Australia earlier this year. The unavailability of key wicketkeepers Josh Inglis and Alex Carey for the first ODI has paved the way for Josh Philippe to be recalled to the ODI squad and assume wicketkeeping duties. The squad also welcomes back all-rounder Matt Short after his recovery from injury.
Matt Short is confirmed to bat at number three for the entirety of the three-match ODI series against India. This represents a positional shift for Short, who has opened in all ten of his previous ODI appearances, making way for the established opening pair of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Short’s return comes after dealing with a rib injury and a subsequent quad issue. He recently played at number three in the T20I series in New Zealand.
Speaking before the match, Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh voiced his confidence in the team’s blend of youth and experience, anticipating a memorable series opener with the support of a sell-out crowd in Perth.