Chappell-Hadlee Trophy 1st ODI, Sydney: Preview, predictions, likely XIs

After being whitewashed 0-3 in South Africa, Australia will now host New Zealand for 3 ODIs, as part of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy. Unlike Australia, New Zealand have won their last series 3-0, against India – albeit at home. The first ODI will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia has had a topsy-turvy show since 2019, starting with a 1-2 defeat against India at home. They turned things around with a 3-2 win in India and 5-0 against Australia in the UAE before reaching the quarterfinal of the World Cup. Since then they have lost 1-2 in India and 0-3 in South Africa.

On the other hand, barring the World Cup (where they finished runners-up), New Zealand have not played away from since last year. At home, they have lost 1-4 to India but beat Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and India 3-0. A change of venue, however, has not suited them well of late, especially in Ausstralia.

With Mitchell Starc back in action, Australia are favourites here. Remember, they whitewashed New Zealand 3-0 in the Tests earlier this season.

Head to head

A 91-39 lead signifies Australia’s clear dominance against New Zealand. Interestingly, the win-loss ratio (2.333) remains the same on Australian soil – 42 wins, 18 defeats.

Key players

Mitchell Starc (Australia): Starc left the South African shores before the last ODI to watch wife Alyssa Healy in the T20 World Cup final. Healy won Player of the Match in the final. In all probability, Starc will now be raring to match her performance.

Kyle Jamieson (New Zealand): All of six foot eight, debutant Jamieson took India by surprise with his pace and extra bounce. He will be a delight to watch on the Australian pitches. Remember, he is also handy with the bat.

Likely XIs

Australia: Aaron Finch (c), David Warner, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Wade, Alex Carey (wk), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Tom Blundell, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham (wk), Colin de Grandhomme, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, Trent Boult.

Prediction

Australia to win.