Hobart
In a recent development, former Australia Test captain Tim Paine shared that the team management is contemplating a change in David Warner’s batting position for the upcoming ODI World Cup, set to take place in India from October 5 to November 19. Warner has impressively scored half-centuries in seven out of his last 16 ODI innings. During Australia’s previous ODI against India in Chennai, the team maintained the aggressive opening partnership of Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head. Due to his recovery from an elbow injury that cut short his participation in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Warner missed the first two ODIs. In the third ODI, he batted at number four to tackle India’s left-arm spinners – Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav – and contributed 23 runs off 31 balls. Addressing the potential change, Tim Paine stated, I’ve heard discussions about this. Quick starts are crucial, and currently, Travis Head and Mitch Marsh provide explosive performances. I believe Warner could be effective at number four.He further elaborated, Warner is adept at playing spin, quick between the wickets, possesses power, and can manage the innings. In such conditions, having him in the middle order makes sense. This idea has been raised by several individuals. Warner will skip Australia’s upcoming three-match T20I series against South Africa due to rest, but he has been included in the ODI squad for the September series. Paine also shared his view that Australia might opt for one less fast bowler than usual for the ODI World Cup. Paine added, I envision a lineup with two quick bowlers, including Cam Green, Marcus Stoinis, and Glenn Maxwell. Australia’s campaign in the Men’s ODI World Cup will commence against hosts India on October 8 in Chennai.
