India vs Australia - 2nd ODI, Rajkot - Match Prediction

Australia had bulldozed India in the first ODI at Wankhede and the hosts’ vulnerabilities were exposed. The Virat Kohli-led side will need to pull up the socks in the next match to keep alive in the series. It was a bolt from the blue for the Indian team as they have not been hammered in such a way in the home conditions. Consequently, it would be interesting to note how the team will react as they have been put under the cosh.

On the other hand, Australia will look to continue their domination. The bowling battery was right on the money as they made a roaring comeback after KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan had laid down the foundation for a big score. However, the hosts lost track after the middle-order collapsed like a pack of cards. India will need to pull up their socks.

India will need to pull up their socks.

Subsequently, Aaron Finch and David Warner decimated the Indian bowling attack. Warner and Finch posted the highest partnership for the opening stand as they batted at the top of their game. Both the attacking batsmen hardly gave any chances to rampaging Indian bowling. Warner took his time in the initial stage but he was able to change gears as he got settled.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli could not deliver while batting at number four. Kohli said that he would need to rethink the batting order as his batting record at number four has been mundane. Consequently, Rahul might bat at number four. Furthermore, Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the second ODI which means KL Rahul will keep wickets.

Moreover, Yuzvendra Chahal might also make the cut into the playing XI. Chahal was left out of the first ODI and his absence was clearly felt as India could not even take a solitary wicket.

Match Prediction: 

Australia will clearly start as favorites as they have got the momentum with them. India will need to play at the top of their game to challenge the potent Australian side. The hosts will like to tick the boxes and come with a collective team effort.