Australia is set to hand ODI debuts to Matt Renshaw and Mitchell Owen for the first match of the series against India, scheduled for October 19 in Perth. For Matt Renshaw, this ODI debut arrives nearly nine years after his international debut and after 14 Test appearances. The 29-year-old has earned his place through stellar white-ball form, including an impressive 248 runs at an average of 82.66 against Sri Lanka A. His overall List A career statistics are also impressive, with 2794 runs at an average of 41.08.
Joining Renshaw in making his ODI debut is Mitchell Owen, whose explosive century off just 48 balls against South Australia has earned him selection. The absence of regular wicketkeepers Josh Inglis and Alex Carey for the series opener means Josh Philippe will return to the ODI squad to keep wickets. Furthermore, all-rounder Matt Short is back in the Australian setup after overcoming an injury.
Matt Short has been confirmed to bat at number three for all three ODIs against India. This move sees him shift from his established opening role, where he has batted in all ten of his previous ODI matches, to accommodate the opening partnership of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Short’s return follows a period of recovery from a rib cartilage fracture and a quad injury. He recently participated in the T20I tour of New Zealand, batting at the number three position.
Australian captain Mitchell Marsh expressed his satisfaction with the squad’s mix of experience and new faces, looking forward to a great start to the series in front of a passionate Perth crowd.