AUS vs ENG: Predicted Australia Playing 11 for the 1st ODI

Injuries have significantly impacted Australia’s 2024 tour of the England, affecting their squad depth and preparations. Nathan Ellis was ruled out without playing a single match due to a hamstring injury he sustained during The Hundred tournament. Additionally, both Xavier Bartlett, suffering from a side strain, and Riley Meredith, dealing with side soreness, were also sidelined, further straining the team’s resources. Despite these setbacks, Australia is poised to welcome back several experienced players as they gear up for the ODI series against England, which begins on September 19. The return of seasoned athletes is a much-needed boost for the squad, as they look to regain their momentum and capitalize on their past successes. The first match against England in Nottingham will mark Australia’s fourth ODI since they lifted the World Cup last year, following a comprehensive 3-0 victory over the West Indies in February.

As they embark on this series, Australia aims to solidify their position and demonstrate their prowess on the international stage. The ODI format will provide a platform for the returning players to showcase their skills and contribute to the team's objectives. With a strong mix of experience and emerging talent, the Australian side is determined to make an impactful statement in this highly anticipated series against England. Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, and Glenn Maxwell are set to join the Australian touring party for the ODI series against England. Their experience and skills will be invaluable as Australia aims to assert its dominance on the international stage following recent injury setbacks. Each of these players has a proven track record, and their return will bolster the squad’s chances of success in this competitive series.

Additionally, the squad includes reserve player Mahli Beardman, who made significant contributions to Australia’s U19 World Cup triumph last year. Beardman’s inclusion not only highlights his potential but also adds depth to the squad, as he brings youthful energy and talent to the mix. With a variety of all-rounders at their disposal, Australia’s lineup for the first match in Nottingham is highly anticipated. The selection will likely depend on conditions and strategy, as the team looks to balance batting depth with bowling strength. Coaches and selectors will face intriguing decisions regarding which players to field, considering the versatility of the all-rounders available.

As the AUS vs ENG series unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how Australia navigates these choices and how the blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent contributes to their performance against a formidable England side. This series promises to deliver exciting cricket, showcasing the skills of some of the best players in the game. Josh Inglis had a solid performance opening the batting in all three ODIs against the West Indies earlier this year, scoring 65 off 43 balls, 9 off 11, and an impressive 35 not out off 16. He appeared comfortable in the opening role, showcasing his ability to handle pressure and set a strong foundation for the team.

Marnus Labuschagne, who played a crucial role for Australia during the 2023 World Cup, now faces uncertainty regarding his position in the lineup for the upcoming ODIs against England. One possible solution is to elevate Inglis to the opening spot over Jake Fraser-McGurk, allowing Labuschagne to take his place in the middle order. This adjustment would not only leverage Inglis's recent form but also strengthen the batting lineup with Labuschagne's consistency and experience. As the series approaches, the decision-making around the batting order will be key. The combination of Inglis's explosive start and Labuschagne's stability could provide Australia with a formidable batting strategy, setting the tone for a successful campaign against England. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how the Australian team balances experience and youth in this crucial series.

Another option for Australia’s batting lineup is Matt Short, who was preferred over Jake Fraser-McGurk at the start of the England T20Is. Short’s inclusion at the top could provide stability, but this England vs Australia ODI series presents a valuable opportunity for Fraser-McGurk to demonstrate his capabilities as an opener. If given the chance, he could make a compelling case for his selection. Additionally, Glenn Maxwell is making his return to the Australian squad after missing the T20Is. He trained with the Victoria squad last week, ensuring he is fit and ready for the upcoming challenges. Maxwell's dynamic batting and all-round skills will be crucial for Australia’s performance in the series.

Mitchell Starc is also set to play a significant role, as he is expected to feature in the Australia playing XI. His experience and prowess as a fast bowler will bolster Australia’s bowling attack against a competitive England lineup. As the series unfolds, the combination of established players and emerging talents will be essential for Australia’s strategy. Fans will be eager to see how the team balances experience and potential in what promises to be an exciting series against England.

Predicted Australia Playing 11 for AUS vs ENG 1st ODI

Travis Head, Josh Inglis (Wk), Mitchell Marsh (C), Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Adam Campa, Josh Hazlewood. 

England vs Australia: Australia ODI squad 

Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa. Reserve: Mahli Beardman.