India vs Australia 2020: 5 things to watch out for in the ODI series

3. Marnus Labuschagne’s ODI trial

Can Marnus Labuschagne replicate his Test form in ODIs?

2019 saw the emergence of Marnus Labuschagne as a leading Test batsman. Now, the right-hander would seek to replicate his good form in the 50-over format as well.

This is likely to be an interesting trial by fire for Labuschagne. Steve Smith has been able to succeed in both the Test and the ODI format, and Labuschagne, who is regarded as the new Smith, would be expected to do the same.

But will he?

Labuschagne's biggest test would be his ability to deal with spinners. He has proven himself to be a hefty scorer in home conditions, and he also did well in England. But how he does against the turning ball would determine whether he is genuinely a future great.

Smith has a tremendous record in India, and he has also proven himself to be a very capable player of spin bowling. Can Labuschagne do the same? He will have to deal with not just the spinners but also two of the best fast bowlers in the world – Bumrah and Shami.

If he succeeds, Australia will have another top-quality batsman in their ODI side. If he doesn’t, he may well come to be regarded as a Test specialist - at least in the immediate future.