NEW DELHI: As the India vs Australia series is just around the corner, it will provide plenty of opportunities to a few players who are looking to make a mark in this format. On the other hand it also gives opportunity to players who are looking to get back to their favorite format and replicate what they have done over the years. So here are the top 5 players to watch out for in the marquee series:
1. Rohit Sharma - The former ODI captain has been removed from his leadership role. Rohit will look to continue his form that he showed in the last ODI that he played in the Champions trophy final. His age has led to people questioning his place in the side, and there are several players already waiting in the wings. The time is just ripe for Rohit to show his class and shut the noises around him. However one major roadblock is his lack of competitive cricket in months.
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2. Virat Kohli - Arguably the greatest ODI batter of all time, Virat has not much to prove. However age is a factor for him as well, but the fitness standards set by him suggests that age should never be a hindrance for him. He has hardly seen a blip in form in this format, and would just look to continue his routine against his favorite opponents. Possibly playing for the final time there, Kohli would want to make sure that he adds a few more centuries on the OZ shore.
3. Nitish Kumar Reddy - Hardik Pandya's injury might have just opened the door for Nitish Kumar Reddy at the right time. Being seen in very high regards by the current management, he is touted as the fast bowling all-round option, which India seems to lack. He has been a part of the Indian Test setup and has played, even in home Test matches recently. This series will serve as a perfect opportunity for NKR to mark his authority, and make a case for his regular inclusion in the ODI setup.
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4. Arshdeep Singh - The flag bearer of Indian fast bowling in T20 cricket, Arshdeep is yet to find his feet in ODI cricket. Now the time serves perfectly for him to make a spot his own in this format. He has been a part of the ODI setup but has mostly warmed the benches in the presence of veterans Bumrah, Shami and Siraj. With two of those names not a part of the squad right now, the three matches could make Arshdeep a permanent fixture in the ODIs. He brings in a different variety with his left arm bowling.
5. Harshit Rana - If there has been one cricketer who has been targeted left, right and centre lately it's Harshit Rana. With not much fault of his own, the critics have been somehow after him. He promises a lot and has the attributes of a good fast bowler in making. The fast and bouncy pitches in Australia provide Harshit with the conditions wherein he can literally thrive. This series might just give him the right opportunity to take wickets in plenty and shut all the critics.
