AUS vs WI 3rd ODI: There comes another thriller as Australia will lock horns with West Indies in the third match of the three-match ODI series. Australia has already clinched the series by 2-0 & would aim to register a clean sweep by winning the third ODI. On the other hand, West Indies have defeated Australia just two times in last 10 matches & haven’t won an ODI against Australia on Australian soil since 1997. They would aim to break that unwanted record by winning the third ODI & avoiding a series sweep.
AUS vs WI 3rd ODI: TEAMS PREVIEW
Australia Preview
Australia, led by the strategic Steven Smith, has been a force to reckon with, securing the series with two convincing wins. With the series trophy already in the bag, Smith is eyeing a 3-0 victory to boost the team’s confidence before the upcoming T20 series. The bowlers have been on point, and now Smith is looking for a strong performance from the top order to wrap up the series.
In the previous game, Jake Fraser-McGurk and Josh Inglis missed out, and the team is banking on a solid comeback from them at the top. The middle order, featuring Cameron Green and Steven Smith, is expected to make substantial contributions alongside Marnus Labuschagne. Further down the order, the likes of Matthew Short, Aaron Hardie, and Sean Abbott, who have been in good form, are set to fortify the batting lineup.
The bowling pair of Josh Hazlewood and Aaron Hardie has consistently troubled opponents with the new ball, and Smith expects them to continue their success. In the middle overs, Sean Abbott and Adam Zampa will be aiming to apply pressure on the West Indies batsmen. With additional variety from Green and Will Sutherland, the Australian bowling attack looks formidable.
West Indies Preview
On the flip side, West Indies, led by Shai Hope, is dealing with the disappointment of losing the series in two games. Despite having opportunities in both matches, they failed to capitalize and are now determined to avoid a series sweep. Hope is rallying his team for a face-saving win, recognizing the historical challenge of winning ODIs against Australia in Australia.
The West Indies top order, represented by Alick Athanaze and Justin Greaves, needs to step up after their struggles in previous encounters. The middle-order duo of Hope and Keacy Carty is crucial, and the team is looking to build partnerships with Kjorn Ottley. Contributions are also expected from the lower middle order, including Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd.
The West Indies bowlers, despite flashes of brilliance, have lacked the knockout punch. Shai Hope anticipates a better performance from Alzarri Joseph and Matthew Forde with the new ball. Romario Shepherd and Oshane Thomas must deliver in the middle overs, supported by the spin expertise of Gudakesh Motie and the supporting role of Roston Chase.
Pitch, Weather, and the Toss Dilemma
The Manuka Oval in Canberra is known for its short square boundaries and fast outfield, favoring aggressive batting. However, the slow surface might create doubts in the batsmen’s minds. Spinners tend to thrive here, and bowlers with variations can succeed. The weather forecast indicates overcast skies on February 6, making batting conditions challenging. The side batting first would aim for a score of around 300 runs.
Historically, teams batting first have had the upper hand at this venue. Given this trend, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt for batting first.
AUS vs WI 3rd ODI Winning Prediction
Despite West Indies’ struggles, they have the potential to bounce back and salvage pride. However, the Australians, with their depth in batting and bowling, enter the game as favorites. Considering the current form and home advantage, Australia is likely to emerge victorious and clinch the series with a clean sweep.
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