Australia vs West Indies, 1st ODI: Match Prediction - Who will win today’s match between AUS vs WI?

After a historic win over Australia (AUS) in the second Test at Gabba, West Indies (WI) will now engage in a three-match ODI series against the hosts, which is slated to begin on February 2. After failing to qualify for the ODI World Cup in 2023, West Indies were subjected to a lot of criticism. However, their recent win over should give the team a lot of confidence to build from scratch and once again be one of the dominant teams in the sport.

The current world champions, on the other hand, will be much more relaxed. They have no point to prove as all their Test-playing pacers have been given a break. In the absence of Pat Cummins, Steven Smith will lead the side while Xavier Barlett, who was remarkable in the recently concluded Big Bash League (BBL) is likely to take his spot in the playing XI. The focus will also be on Matthew Short, who was remarkable with the bat in BBL.

AUS vs WI Match Details

Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Report and Conditions

The Melbourne Cricket Ground will offer assistance to the batters. The pacers are likely to get some advantage in the initial overs but other than that, it is all for the batters. Bowling first will be ideal and anything over 320 runs will be a good total on this surface.

AUS vs WI Head-to-Head Record in ODIs:

AUS vs WI Predicted Playing XI:

Australia:

Travis Head, Matthew Short, Steven Smith (c), Jake Fraser-McGurk, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Xavier Barlett, Adam Zampa

West Indies

Justin Greaves, Kjorn Ottley, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (wk/c), Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Oshane Thomas

Probable Top Performers

Probable Best Batter: Matthew Short

Matthew Short made 541 runs in 11 matches in the BBL and finished as the leading run-scorer of the tournament. He is in remarkable form at the moment and would hope to capitalise on that to cement his spot in the ODI team.

Probable Best Bowler: Xavier Barlett

Just like Short, Xavier Barlett was sensational in the BBL, which helped him earn a spot in the ODI squad. He will be desparate to prove himself in the middle, given the competition among pacers is immense in the Australian team.

Today’s Match Prediction: Australia to win the match

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.