ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Marcus Stoinis proves fitness in a massive boost for Australia before first match against India

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis earlier had suffered a hamstring niggle.

Marcus Stoinis was not feeling hundred per cent and according to Australian coach Andrew McDonald, the all-rounder had slight issues with his hamstring.

While talking to the media on Thursday morning from Chennai, McDonald said: "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."

He also added that the team would take a call on his availability after the main session and a hit-out session before the match. He also confirmed that Stoinis wasn't fit and available for the practice matches. However, he was seen practising both bowling and batting in the nets on Thursday night, during the main session. The all-rounder is likely to get back to the team for the Indian clash on Sunday, October 8th.

Selection dilemma for Aussies as Marcus Stoinis gains fitness

Marcus Stoinis gaining his fitness has given a happy headache for Australian management as they will have to miss out on in-form players on Sunday.

Cameron Green, who found some form during the warm-up match against Pakistan with 40-ball 50*, might have to sit out to provide a place for Stoinis. However, McDonald said on Thursday that one of the plans is to fit both Stoinis and Green in the playing eleven. He also mentioned that the selection would be based on the surface and the condition.

"There is a real possibility that both of those players can be in the same XI and we haven't ruled that out. We're pretty clear on the way that we want to go about it. And that'll be surface-dependent and clearly body-dependent as well." he said.

Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell also proved his fitness with a quick-fire 77 against Pakistan. He is expected to lead the all-rounders' pack in Chennai. While Adam Zampa is also expected to be back into the side, Australia still await confirmation on Travis Head's fitness.

Australia will take on India in their tournament opener on October 8th at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. This will also be the first match for the hosts, who are looking for their first World Cup trophy since 2011. Notably, India and Australia also faced in a three-match ODI series before the World Cup. The hosts won the series by 2-1.