Following an exhilarating Test series, the Australian cricket team is poised to face the West Indies in the inaugural match of a three-game ODI series at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Friday, February 2. The subsequent clashes are scheduled to take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney and the Manuka Oval in Canberra on February 4 and February 6, respectively.

This ODI showdown holds significance for Australia as it marks their return to the 50-over format after clinching the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 in India. The West Indies, fuelled by their remarkable eight-run triumph in the second Test, are eager to carry forward their winning momentum into the ODI series, guided by the leadership of Shai Hope.

Stepping into the role of captaincy for Australia is the seasoned Steve Smith. The stage is set for an enthralling clash, with both teams aiming to establish their dominance in the limited-overs format following a fiercely contested Test battle. Cricket enthusiasts can anticipate a high-stakes and riveting encounter between these two cricketing powerhouses as they transition from the red-ball to the white-ball format.

West Indies’ best XI for the five-match ODI series against Australia:

The West Indies ODI squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents and aim to pose a formidable challenge to Australia in the 50-overs leg. Here’s the West Indies’ best XI:

Justin Greaves: A versatile batsman known for his ability to stabilize the innings and provide stability to the top order.
Alick Athanaze: A promising young talent, Athanaze brings flair and dynamism to the batting lineup, capable of playing impactful innings.
Keacy Carty: A reliable middle-order batter with a good technique, Carty is expected to anchor the innings and contribute crucial runs.
Shai Hope (c & wk): The captain and wicketkeeper, Shai Hope, is a key player known for his batting prowess and leadership skills.
Kavem Hodge: A batting all-rounder, Hodge adds depth to the lineup and provides an additional spin-bowling option.
Roston Chase: A seasoned campaigner, Chase brings experience to the middle order along with his off-spin bowling capabilities.
Romario Shepherd: A pace-bowling all-rounder, Shepherd’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds balance to the team.
Matthew Forde: A promising fast bowler, Forde is expected to provide pace and aggression to the West Indies’ bowling attack.
Hayden Walsh: A leg-spin bowler, Walsh, can play a crucial role in breaking partnerships.
Gudakesh Motie: An orthodox left-arm spinner, Motie is a key asset for the West Indies in the spin-bowling department.
Oshane Thomas: A fast and aggressive pace bowler, Thomas is likely to spearhead the pace attack and trouble the Australian batsmen with his pace and bounce.

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