India vs Australia | India will win ODI series even by giving only 60%, says Harbhajan Singh

As India get ready to host Australia in T20Is and ODIs, former cricketers have termed India to be the favourites to win the ODI series taking into account their recent form and star-studded squad. The Men in Blue come into the series at the back of victories in bilateral ODI series in Australia and New Zealand. While India didn’t have the services of Jasprit Bumrah in both the series with Mohammed Shami getting a chance, the star bowler has now returned.

"Given India's current form, I don't think any team will be able to beat them. Even if India give their 60 per cent, they will win the ODI series 4-1. Jasprit Bumrah's return is a big plus for Team India," Harbhajan told Aaj Tak.

KL Rahul has also been back in the Indian team as well for the series against the Aussies in both the formats but according to Harbhajan, his failure might give an opportunity to Rishabh Pant, who has been looking forward to cement his place in the Indian squad for the World Cup.

"This [India vs Australia series] is the opportunity for Rishabh Pant to cement his place in the World Cup squad and for KL Rahul, obviously this is the chance. If Rahul fails to get runs, then we should not be too surprised to see Pant as an opener and Dinesh Karthik could get a spot in the team in that case," the former off-spinner said.

"I don't think there will be changes in the Indian team for the World Cup even if someone plays amazingly well in the IPL, be it Suresh Raina or any youngster. I don't think the 15-man squad will change, unless there are injuries or so. BCCI is also looking at the squad in the manner of who to rest and how during the IPL, so the squad is more or less locked.”