India vs Australia 2015: What should be MS Dhoni's playing XI for 1st ODI?

In Suresh Raina's absence, Indian think tank has plenty to ponder over the No. 6 position in the middle-order.

New Delhi: After suffering back-to-back defeats against South Africa in T20Is as well as ODIs, India's limited-overs skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni would be keen to put a good show against Australia in the upcoming series. (India vs Australia 2015: Full coverage)

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Indian squad for the ODIs is full of youngsters and it's a great opportunity for them to stake their claim and impress the selectors.

While India have a star-studded top-order packed with Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, the middle-order is India's main concern with Dhoni failing to provide the much-needed flourish of late.

In Raina's absence, the number six position will be crucial for India. Ravindra Jadeja might be given preference over Gurkeerat Singh, but considering Jadeja's poor show overseas, the team management might spring a surprise by giving the Punjab all-rounder a chance to prove his mettle.

In the bowling department, India's will rely hugely on Ravichandran Ashwin, who emerged as a world class spinner last year. India have an experienced pace attack in Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and to add more variety, Dhoni might include left-arm pacer Brainder Sran in the playing XI as well.

India's probable ODI squad: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni (c), Ravindra Jadeja/Gurkeerat Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Brainder Sran

Reserves: Rishi Dhawan, Manish Pandey, Axar Patel