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Marcus Stoinis Declared Fully Fit; Ready To Sizzle Against India In World Cup 2023

image-lnejr747Marcus Stoinis in a nets session (Twitter)

In the lead-up to their tournament opener against India in Chennai on Sunday, October 8, Australia has received a significant boost with the news that all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has regained fitness and is available for selection in the high-profile clash.

Initially, concerns had arisen about Stoinis not being in prime physical condition due to a nagging hamstring issue. 

This concern had arisen during the first ODI of the three-match series against India in Mohali last month, sidelining him not only for the ODI series but also for the two World Cup warm-up matches.

Later Australian head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the same by saying, 

"He’s got a slight hamstring complaint at this stage, so that’s why he missed the practice games, and he’ll be touch and go for the first game against India.”

Despite initial reports suggesting that Stoinis might miss the India-Australia game, he has surpassed expectations by regaining his fitness. In a thorough net session held on Thursday evening at Chepauk, Stoinis was the focal point. 

He commenced with a 40-minute bowling spell and followed it up with an extensive batting session lasting nearly 47 minutes at Chepauk. Stoinis' comprehensive all-round drill confirms his readiness and availability for Australia's inaugural World Cup match against the host nation, India.

Australia boasts an abundance of multi-dimensional players, allowing them to approach every match with a well-rounded squad, regardless of pitch conditions. They can field the same XI across various surfaces and still remain a formidable unit. 

With four batting all-rounders and one bowling all-rounder in Sean Abbott, Australia's key decision will revolve around the selection of Cameron Green or Stoinis. In the event that both these players are included, it may necessitate the omission of Josh Hazlewood.

The exact combination Australia opts for remains uncertain, but having Stoinis fit and available for selection is a significant advantage for the five-time champions, given his substantial experience in Indian playing conditions.