Australia have been hit with a major setback ahead of their Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview, as wicket-keeper Josh Inglis and spinner Adam Zampa have both been ruled out of the first match. While Inglis is sidelined due to a calf injury, Zampa will miss the game for personal reasons, leaving Australia with important gaps to fill before the much-awaited clash.
Josh Inglis Ruled Out, Josh Philippe Called Up
Josh Inglis’ absence comes as a big blow to Australia’s plans for the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview. The wicket-keeper-batter strained his calf during a training run in Perth and has been ruled out of the opening ODI. His injury is being closely monitored by the medical team, with hopes that he will recover in time for the third match in Sydney on October 25.
Inglis’ replacement, Josh Philippe, has been called up to the squad and is expected to make his return to the ODI setup after nearly three years. Philippe last featured in an ODI against the West Indies in 2021, and his inclusion provides Australia with a solid backup option behind the stumps. Known for his aggressive stroke play and sharp wicket-keeping skills, Philippe will be eager to make an impact if given the opportunity in the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
Australia’s head coach expressed confidence in Philippe’s abilities, highlighting his strong performances in domestic cricket and the Big Bash League (BBL). His call-up also reflects Australia’s long-term plan to build depth in their white-ball squad ahead of the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
Adding to the squad changes, left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has also been included to strengthen the team’s spin department. Kuhnemann, who last played an ODI in 2022, has been in good form recently and could play a crucial role on the turning pitches expected during the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview. His accuracy and ability to contain runs make him a reliable choice against India’s strong batting lineup.
READ MORE:
- Top 10 Most Stunning Female Cricketers Of All Time
- Bangladesh vs South Africa 3-Wicket Thriller: Heartbreak for Bangladesh in Final Over Women’s World Cup Clash
Zampa Misses Out, Carey to Rejoin Later
Australia will also be without their premier spinner Adam Zampa, who will miss the first ODI due to family reasons. Zampa’s wife, Harriet, is expecting their second child, and the spinner has been granted paternity leave to be with his family. He is expected to rejoin the squad ahead of the Adelaide ODI, giving Australia a boost in the latter part of the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
Zampa’s absence creates a significant gap in Australia’s spin attack. The experienced leg-spinner has been one of the most consistent performers in white-ball cricket, known for his sharp turn and control in middle overs. Without him, Australia will rely on Kuhnemann, Matt Short, and Cooper Connolly to handle the spin duties during the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview. Short’s all-round abilities and Connolly’s left-arm spin provide useful variety, though neither has Zampa’s international experience.
Adding to the complexity, Alex Carey will also miss the opening match as he continues to represent South Australia in the Sheffield Shield clash against Queensland. The wicketkeeper-batter’s decision to focus on red-ball cricket is part of his preparations for the upcoming Ashes series, but he is expected to rejoin the national team before the second ODI of the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
With Inglis and Carey both unavailable for the first match, Australia face a tricky wicket-keeping situation. Philippe is likely to don the gloves, while the team management could consider a reshuffle in the batting order to maintain balance during the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
Despite the setbacks, the Australian squad remains confident of putting up a strong fight in the Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview. The inclusion of young players like Kuhnemann, Short, and Connolly presents a chance for them to prove their worth on the international stage.
As the series begins, Australia will be eager to start well at home and gain momentum before the busy international season ahead. Fans can expect intense competition, as both sides prepare to test their combinations in what promises to be a thrilling Australia vs India 3-ODI Series Preview.
SEE MORE:
source: Times of India
