The series between the two oldest cricketing rivals is in the balance. In the winner takes all 3rd ODI, both teams will be looking to put their best foot forward. Australia has overall looked a better team in the ODI’s but somehow managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory in the second ODI. In order to choose the correct Fantasy XI, it is important to understand the conditions first. The match will be played at the same venue in Manchester, however, the pitch to be used will be a fresh one.
England’s talisman captain Eoin Morgan has already stated that they would be intentionally looking to prepare ‘sub-continent’ style wickets. This is in order to be prepared for the 2023 World Cup in India. Having said that, don’t expect the pitch to be as sluggish as the 2nd ODI, since that match was played on a used surface. Spinners will still hold the key as generally, the Manchester wicket aids their art.
Will Steve Smith play in the 3rd ODI?
After being hit on the head before the 1st ODI, Australia’s best batsman Steve Smith was ruled out of the first two games. Justin Langer in the press conference sounded positive about Smith’s chances in the decider. However, 24 hours later he admitted that his number 3 looked ‘rusty’ in the nets and didn’t sound as confident. We feel that it could also be mind games and Steve Smith will play the all-important final ODI.
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Cricket Cult’s Fantasy XI
1) Aaron Finch 2) Johnny Bairstow 3) Joe Root 4) Steve Smith (subject to him playing) 5) Jos Buttler (VC) 6) Marnus Labuschagne (c) 7) Josh Hazelwood 8) Jofra Archer 9) Adam Zampa 10) Adil Rashid 11) Chris Woakes 12) David Warner (If Steve Smith doesn’t play)
David Warner has been out of touch and been pretty much Jofra Archer’s bunny in the series. However, if Steve Smith fails the fitness test, he’s still Australia’s best bet and should be in your Fantasy 11. Eoin Morgan misses out because he will be tested against the quick short ball that has proved to be his Achilles heel. An in-form Steve Smith would ideally have been the captain of this team but he is a doubtful starter and Marnus is the second-best player of spin on either side, making him a perfect captaincy choice. Jason Roy hasn’t looked good this summer while Jos Buttler is England’s best white-ball player and should be vice-captain. The two leg-spinners, Rashid and Zampa are must pick in the team. Archer, Woakes, and Hazelwood have been the three best pacers on show.