India will host Australia in a three-match ODI series from September 22 to September 27.
After the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka, the Men in Blue are due to host Australia in a three-match ODI series from September 22 to September 27.
“More than the result, whether it is a win by 3-0 or losing 3-0, I think what is more important is for the team to go through as many tests as possible because the only thing that matters is the World Cup,” Raina said on JioCinema’s Home of the Blues show.
Suresh Raina feels seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur could be India’s x-factor in the 50-over series against Australia. He also called for veteran pacer Mohammad Shami’s inclusion in the playing XI.
“Yes, they have a lot of left-right combinations in the batting order. For me, Shardul Thakur will be the X-factor. Definitely, Mohammad Shami. I would pick Shami because he has the skill of swinging his deliveries and bowling yorkers. The Australian side has a lot of left-handers, and it will be interesting to see if Ravindra Jadeja manages to take wicket.
“The Indore ground is very small, and Rajkot has a flat track. Also, the Australian side has played a lot in Mohali and hence I believe they will have an upper hand. In these small grounds, even scores of 340-350 will be chaseable and the Indian team will need to play a very strong bowling lineup to defend any sort of total in the World Cup,” he added.
India will open their ODI World Cup campaign against Australia in Chennai on October 8.