SL vs AUS: Australia announce playing XI for the first ODI, Pat Cummins returns

Australia skipper Aaron Finch has confirmed his side’s playing XI for the first ODI match against Sri Lanka. The opening match of the five-match series will be played at the Pallekele International cricket stadium. Finch has confirmed that Australian pacer Kane Richardson has suffered an injury, and he will not be featuring in the series anymore as he has flown back to Australia.

Express pacer Mitchell Starc is also not available for the game after suffering an injury. Batting all-rounder Mitchell Marsh will also not be featuring in the first match due to a calf injury. Meanwhile, senior pacer Pat Cummins has been recalled to the playing XI. Apart from Cummins, pacer Josh Hazlewood and Jhye Richardson have been included in the playing XI.

Ashton Agar pips Mitchell Swepson for the spinner spot

The Australian team management has gone with the experience of Ashton Agar instead of wrist-spinner Mitchell Swepson. Meanwhile, Alex Carey will take care of the wicketkeeping responsibility. Marnus Labuschagne will also play his first match on tour and will want to do good with the bat.

After bagging the T20I series 2-1, Australia will now look to extend its dominance in the ODI series. However, the Sri Lankan side managed to win the final T20I match by four wickets and will have their confidence up.

The home side has recalled their talented batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa into the ODI squad, and he might feature in the first match of the series. The visitors look very strong on the paper and will step into the series as favourites. On the other hand, Sri Lanka will want to give their 100% if they want to give Australia any competition in the series. The first match of the series will be played on June 14 (Tuesday).

Australia playing XI for 1st ODI: Aaron Finch (c), David Warner, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Jhye Richardson, Josh Hazlewood.