Stoinis latest Aussie battling injury ahead of World Cup opener

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is racing the clock to be fit for Australia’s opening 50-over World Cup clash against India in Chennai on Sunday.

The Australians have had several injury concerns in the lead-up to the tournament, with Glenn Maxwell only recently returning form a long-term layoff, while Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc have also missed matches with injury.

India is the $1.67 favourite with cricket betting sites to win the clash against the Aussies ($2.20), with the home conditions set to favour them heavily.

The Australians have landed in Chennai, and are preparing for for the clash, which promises to be a cracking contest, with these two of the best ODI teams in world cricket.

However, some are doubting the Australians preparation. Over the past month, the Australians have engaged in 13 white-ball games, involving a rotation of 26 players who have been part of the touring squad since the end of August.

Stoinis has remained with the touring squad throughout this period, although he did not play in Australia’s four most recent games. His fitness level has been a matter of concern, casting doubt over his selection for the opening match.

Despite reassurances from fellow all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who claimed that Stoinis was “tracking all right” following a warm-up victory over Pakistan, it’s apparent that Stoinis has struggled to maintain optimal fitness in the lead-up to the tournament.

Furthermore, there are expectations around the team’s composition, with young star Green likely to secure a spot in Australia’s middle order, potentially overshadowing Stoinis even if he is deemed fit to play.

The Australians are also set to partner David Warner with all-rounder Mitchell Marsh at the top of the order, after the pair batted well together in the lead-up matches.

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