Australia will take advantage of the swift WACA pitch in Perth to blood two new quicks, Joel Paris (pictured) and Scott Boland, in today’s opening ODI against India.
Paris has had a remarkable season so far for his team the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash competition, a factor that may have influenced the selectors.
“Scott has continued to impress the selection panel, having bowled very well for Victoria this year,” selector Rod Marsh said.
“Joel is an exciting young left-arm bowler who swings the ball well and has bowled beautifully in the Big Bash League for the Perth Scorchers. He has had very good figures in short-form cricket and we really want him to make the most of this opportunity. He certainly deserves this chance at the top level.”
Shaun Marsh was omitted despite his fine form in the Big Bash and against the West Indies. Quick James Pattinson is also omitted and Matthew Wade takes over keeping duties from Peter Nevill. Josh Hazlewood remains in the attack, supported by Mitch Marsh and James Faulkner. Kane Richardson of South Australia was named in the squad but omitted from the final 11. Test and ODI captain Steven Smith, David Warner, George Bailey, Aaron Fitch and Glenn Maxwell will provide a solid batting base for Australia’s five-match campaign.
India have talent all over the park with star batsmen including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and captain MS Dhoni. Kohli in particular relishes facing Australia, seemingly changing up a gear when facing them. India played both its veteran spinners, Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, in a warm-up match against Western Australia, and both were in top form, bowling tightly and restricting their opposition’s run chase.
The weather should be good though there is a very small chance of light showers. – Jesse Mullens and The Newsroom Team
Top photo: Joel Paris played for Australia Under-19s when he was 16. From Cricket Australia’s website.
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