The current Australia side are a shadow of their golden generation, and the suspension of Smith and Warner has not helped their cause. The big question looming around this team is whether they’ll be able to pose a threat during the 2019 World Cup…
Since the Ashes win against England earlier this year, Australian cricket has been going through a dark period. The infamous ball-tampering incident against South Africa is being followed by a string of losses in all formats. Steve Smith and David Warner will be back for the World Cup, but it’ll be interesting to see if they can reproduce their previously devastating batting form after enduring such psychological trauma.
Rustiness will also play a part as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and a string of warm-up games will not be enough for the duo to regain match fitness. Having said that, just their presence in the squad will boost the whole side’s morale and the Australian cricket team will definitely look a stronger outfit on paper.
"It's been six months since South Africa. A lot of water has gone under the bridge. We've got to start rebuilding the cricket team to start winning games for Australia" – Brad Haddin. https://t.co/S8Exv65CFX
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) October 30, 2018
Australia’s pace attack is a well-oiled machine with Starc, Hazelwood and Cummins forming a formidable front-three. However, their collective physical health might be an issue as all three bowlers have been troubled by injuries recently. The spin department is relatively weaker but they should take both Adam Zampa and Nathan Lyon to England. Lyon is a sensational test bowler and arguably the best off-spinner in the world right now. Although the 30 year-old has not yet mastered the limited overs format, his experience and ability will be crucial. Zampa, on the other hand, is no Shane Warne – but the youngster possesses plenty of skill and is not afraid to toss the ball up to create wicket-taking opportunities.
Trouble with the bat
The batting department is a worry because Aaron Finch, the Marsh brothers, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Lynn, and all the other batsmen have not performed consistently for the last few months. We’re all well aware of the fact that Smith and Warner are brilliant batsmen, but they’ll need a significant amount of support from the rest of the team if Australia are to mount a serious challenge at the World Cup.
SOUTH AFRICA LEAD SERIES 1-0
Bowlers lead the charge as visitors register comprehensive six-wicket win over Australia in the first #AUSvSA ODI in Perth.
REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/VPAotXVj67 pic.twitter.com/r2g9R5L2VL
— ICC (@ICC) November 4, 2018
Mitchell Marsh has been disappointing recently. Despite being very talented with both bat and ball, he hasn’t played to his potential. Shaun Marsh has also been given ample time to cement his position in the Australian cricket team. But apart from a blistering showing in the 2016 IPL, the batsman hasn’t given fans much to cheer about. Maxwell is a great impact player and will need to put his head down to be at his best. If the all-rounder performs well, he’ll almost certainly be a match-winner for Australia.
At the moment, Australia do not look like potential semi-finalists for the World Cup. Nonetheless, if they can sort themselves out in the coming months, they may have a chance. The return of Smith and Warner should provide a welcome boost, while a string of victories could help regain confidence. Fitness will also be crucial as the new World Cup format will really test the players’ endurance. Most importantly, if they can rediscover that fearless Australian mentality, they can still be a lethal side.