India vs Australia ODIs: Indian cricket team suffered a major setback ahead of ODI World Cup 2023 as their star spin all-rounder Axar Patel is likely to miss two matches in upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series. During an interaction with the media after historic victory in 2023 Asia Cup Final, Rohit shared a big update on Axar Patel, who missed playing the summit clash due to a left quadriceps strain.
"Axar Patel is likely to miss the first two ODIs against Australia while Iyer is 99 per cent fit," Rohit revealed during the presser. Washington Sundar, who was called in as Axar Patel's replacement for 2023 Asia Cup final, might remain part of the national squad during India vs Australia ODI series.
Washington Sundar, who is part of Asian Games-bound squad, was straightaway drafted into India XI for the Asia Cup 2023 Final, but he didn't get a chance to either bowl or bat. Axar Patel sustained injury while batting during India vs Bangladesh dead rubber in the Super Fours stage final match. Meanwhile, it is highly likely that Sundar might remain with the Indian contingent for their upcoming ODI series against Australia.
Axar Patel is part of India's 15-man ODI World Cup 2023 team. In case he fails to recover in time, prove his fitness for the ICC event, BCCI has the option to make changes in their provisional ODI World Cup team by September 27. As per Rohit Sharma's statement, Axar is expected to return for third and final ODI vs Australia.
The three match ODI series between India and Australia will begin on September 22. The second and third ODI will be played between the two teams on September 24 and 27, respectively. Following that, the Men in Blue are scheduled to take part in two warm-up matches against England, on September 30, and against Netherlands, on October 3.