Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, Indian cricket team has seen much success in recent past. However, Australia’s upcoming tour for limited-over series, starting with the first ODI on Sunday, will be the real challenge for the men-in-blue.
As far as ODI cricket is concerned, India currently ride a juggernaut that crushed Sri Lanka, West Indies, England and New Zealand in past.
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The 2016-17 calendar witnessed India’s incredible victory streak as they clinched four ODI series on a trot, defeating New Zealand 3-2, England 2-1, West Indies 3-1 and Sri Lanka 5-0.
During this period, the Indians reached on the brink of winning Champions Trophy as well but had to conclude as runners-up.
Captain Kohli will have to share the credit of success with wicketkeeper batsman MS Dhoni, who led the Indian limited-over side till the conclusion of New Zealand series.
Nonetheless, Kolhi still seeks the guidance of Dhoni while placing the fielders in a limited-over match.
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Starting his ODI captaincy tenure with England’s tour to India in January 2017, Kohli justified his position and led India to a 2-1 win in the three-match ODI series.
Following it, Kohli’s confidence has intensified with time. Earlier an aggressive hitter, Kohli now dons the look of a more composed and mature skipper.
India last played Australia in January 2016 and lost the five-match ODI series to the hosts by 4-1. Therefore, it will be a chance for Kohli and company to settle past humiliation.
India are currently placed third in the ICC ODI team’s rankings, following the second-ranked Australian team with a margin of 239 points.
In the thrilling series, Team India will play five ODIs against Steve Smith-led Australia, followed by the three-match T20I series.