Australia vs West Indies, 1st T20I Match Preview

After whitewashing West Indies in the three-match ODI series, Australia would aim to repeat the same in the shorter format. With the T20 World Cup in mind, the hosts have named a strong squad for the series, as only Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc have been given a break to keep themselves fresh ahead of the Test series against New Zealand. Meanwhile, all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is set to return after missing out on the ODI series due to bad health.

The focus will be on Matthew Wade, Tim David, Matthew Short, and Jason Behrendorff. Wade and David are more or less confirmed for the major tournament but to seal their place in the playing XI, the upcoming couple of months will be extremely important. Matthew Short, on the other hand, had a terrific BBL but he is yet to cement his place in the playing XI. The same thing can be said about Jason Behrendorff, who can lose his place when Cummins and Starc return.

Meanwhile, southpaw David Warner will be back in action in the first T20I on February 9. The veteran batter recently called his time in Test and ODI cricket and may announce retirement from T20Is after the T20 World Cup. The next few months can be his final few months in international cricket and one can expect him to play a fearless brand of cricket.

Also Read: Ricky Ponting compliments Jake Fraser-McGurk, drops major comparison with David Warner

When it comes to West Indies, a few senior cricketers are set to join the squad, which should boost their morale. The likes of Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, and Jason Holder are some of the most dangerous batters in the shortest format and will be key for West Indies in the upcoming series and also in the mega tournament. 

The bowling too looks sorted with Akeal Hosein and Alzarri Joseph in the mix. They have the quality to upset the home side and if they manage to do so, West Indies can send a statement to world cricket that they are ready to dominate again.

Bellerive Oval Pitch Report

The surface at Bellerive Oval will assist the batters. Bowling first will be ideal and anything above 180 runs will be a good total on the surface.

AUS vs WI Probable Playing XI

Australia:

Australia have multiple match-winners in the squad. The return of Warner and Maxwell will boost their confidence, while the focus will be on the youngsters as their progress will be closely monitored.

Predicted XI: David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Matthew Short, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade (wk), Jason Behrendorff, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

West Indies:

West Indies are one of the most unpredictable teams. They can win matches from any situation and can lose as well. Most importantly, they have a strong squad that can pose a strong threat to Australia.

Predicted XI: Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Shai Hope (wk), Rovman Powell (c), Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph

AUS vs WI T20Is Head-to-Head Records:

AUS vs WI, 1st T20I Broadcast details: