India vs Australia 2017: Combined ODI XI

Axar Patel will play a vital role for India in the series

Getting sharper with every passing international game, Axar Patel displayed his pin-point accuracy and guile during the Sri Lanka series that preceded the visiting Australians. While his batting might still be undercooked, the value of his left-arm spin in the middle overs, especially to stifle the run-flow, cannot be undermined. His lightning-fast fielding and accurate throw make him a perfect replacement for the ‘rested’ Ravindra Jadeja.

Having cranked up his pace a few notches, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2.0 has been swifter and fitter, but the swing he used to generate before might not be on display as much these days. His more than useful batting skills were on display in the Sri Lanka series, giving him an added advantage over other fast bowling options in the team.