Australia have made an important change ahead of their ODI series against India as Labuschagne picked for India ODIs following the injury to all-rounder Cameron Green. The decision comes after Green was ruled out due to a mild side soreness, prompting Cricket Australia to take a cautious approach with his workload before the upcoming Ashes.
Cameron Green’s recent side soreness, though diagnosed as a “low-grade” issue, has forced the selectors to make changes to their squad. Green, who had just returned to competitive bowling after undergoing back surgery last year, played in Western Australia’s recent Sheffield Shield game. During that match, he bowled four overs and even picked up a wicket — marking his comeback to full fitness. However, to avoid any risk before the crucial Ashes series, Australia decided to rest him.
Cricket Australia confirmed the news in a statement, explaining, “Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes.” This means Green will miss the three-match ODI series against India on October 19, 23, and 25 but is expected to be fit for Western Australia’s next Shield fixture starting October 28.
As Labuschagne picked for India ODIs, the focus now shifts to his impressive form at the domestic level. Marnus Labuschagne has been in red-hot touch recently, scoring four centuries in his last five domestic games for Queensland. Out of those, two centuries came in the 50-over format — making him an ideal fit for Australia’s ODI plans.
Labuschagne Picked for India ODIs — A Return in Top Form
Despite being left out of the home ODIs against South Africa earlier this year — where he managed only 1 and 1 in two innings — Labuschagne picked for India ODIs after proving his consistency in domestic cricket. The selectors have clearly taken note of his form and reliability, especially in subcontinental conditions where his technique and temperament could be valuable.
This selection also marks an opportunity for Labuschagne to re-establish himself in Australia’s limited-overs setup. Over the past few months, he has shown tremendous patience, adaptability, and hunger for runs. With Labuschagne picked for India ODIs, he will aim to translate his domestic dominance into international success.
Australia’s ODI series in India will serve as vital preparation for their busy cricket calendar. The team will want to test different combinations ahead of the Ashes and other major tournaments. Having Labuschagne picked for India ODIs strengthens the batting order, especially in the absence of Green’s all-round balance.
There have been a few other adjustments in the squad as well. Josh Philippe comes in to replace Josh Inglis, who is still recovering from a calf injury, while spinner Adam Zampa will miss the first match due to family reasons. Zampa, along with Alex Carey and Inglis, is expected to rejoin the squad from the second ODI onwards.
The official Cricket Australia squad for the first ODI includes 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, and Mitchell Starc.
With Labuschagne picked for India ODIs, Australia have a strong and flexible unit capable of adapting to different conditions. Labuschagne’s inclusion adds experience and depth in the middle order — something the team has been looking for after inconsistent ODI performances in recent months.
For Labuschagne, this is another chance to make a statement. He knows that performing well in India — against one of the world’s toughest bowling attacks — could secure his long-term spot in the white-ball setup. His confidence, technique against spin, and ability to build partnerships will be key.
As Labuschagne picked for India ODIs, Australian fans are excited to see him continue his fine run of form. If he can carry his domestic momentum into international cricket, he could once again become a crucial figure in Australia’s ODI side.
This call-up not only rewards his recent performances but also highlights the selectors’ trust in his temperament and work ethic. With Green focusing on recovery, Labuschagne picked for India ODIs represents both a strategic and well-deserved selection.
Australia will begin the first ODI on October 19 in Perth, followed by matches on October 23 and 25. With several key players returning later in the series, the spotlight will remain firmly on Labuschagne picked for India ODIs, as he looks to seize the opportunity and make an immediate impact against a strong Indian side.
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