Overview: An abrupt setback for Australia
Australia have been dealt a significant blow on the eve of their three-match ODI series against India, with all-rounder Cameron Green ruled out due to lingering side soreness. The injury, described as a minor setback by Cricket Australia, comes at a time when Green was just beginning to hit his stride with the ball again after a lengthy back problem. The series opener is scheduled to take place in Perth on Sunday, and the injury has prompted a reshuffle within the squad.
Labuschagne’s reprieve: A tactical call rooted in form
In a surprising development, Marnus Labuschagne has been recalled to the squad as Green’s replacement. Labuschagne had initially been left out, but his domestic form—coupled with the need for a steady, high-calibre option in the middle order—has earned him a late call-up. The right-hander’s inclusion brings an element of consistency and resilience to a team that will be looking to set the tone early against a potent Indian attack.
Green’s injury context and timeline
Green reported low-grade side soreness during training this week, and the decision to withdraw him from the ODI series was made after assessment. This marks a temporary setback for the all-rounder, who had only recently returned to bowling after his back injury and had just produced a star turn with an unbeaten 118 in his most recent ODI appearance. While the injury is not expected to sideline him for long, it does pause his momentum ahead of a busy stretch that includes the Ashes.
Implications for the Australian squad
The change opens doorways for Labuschagne to contribute in multiple facets—from skipper Mitchell Marsh’s leadership to stabilising the middle order with his measured approach. Australia will likely rely on a balanced attack and the depth of their bowling group to counter India’s power at the top and mid-wicket-heavy lineup. The squad still includes seasoned performers such as Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, with spin options from Matthew Kuhnemann and Adam Zampa ready to complicate India’s plans.
Questions ahead of the Perth opener
Australia will be hoping Labuschagne’s inclusion translates into immediate runs, while the bowling unit, led by Marsh, adjusts to life without Green for this series. The series provides a valuable platform to test combinations ahead of the Ashes, where every performance is scrutinised and every selection decision weighs heavily on the longer format expectations. As Green focuses on rehabilitation, the team’s form against India is under close watch from fans and selectors alike.
Series outlook
The three-match ODI series promises competitive cricket, with India aiming to maintain their strong white-ball record and Australia seeking a confidence-boosting performance at home. The action starts in Perth, with subsequent fixtures potentially shaping selection and strategy ahead of Australia’s domestic commitments and the Ashes schedule. Cricket Australia reiterated that Green’s return to play is anticipated in round three of the Sheffield Shield, aligning his comeback with the broader preparation window for the summer’s marquee tests.
Australia squad for the ODI series against India
Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Matthew Short, Mitchell Starc. nFor games two and three only: Adam Zampa, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis
