India Women Win Toss and Choose to Bat First in 1st ODI Against Australia in Brisbane

India has revealed its team for the upcoming three ODIs against Australia, and it includes the return of wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh. Notably absent from the squad is young opener Shafali Verma, who will be replaced by Ghosh. Ghosh had missed the previous home series against New Zealand due to her board exams, but is now back in the team for the series against Australia.

Earlier at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur underscored Shafali's importance to the team and expressed confidence in her eventual return to the Indian setup.

"She's someone very important to us, and she has done really well for the country. She's looking forward to getting back in and performing w

ell for India," Harmanpreet said.

With the Women's ODI World Cup set to take place in India next year, Harmanpreet acknowledged the significance of this three-match series as preparation for the marquee event.

"Yeah, it's always a great feeling to play in Australia. We all enjoy playing cricket here, and I'm looking forward to it. We had two days of training, and everyone is feeling good and in great shape," Harmanpreet said.

Australia has historically been a formidable opponent for India in white-ball cricket. India's Women's T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment earlier this year with a group-stage defeat to Australia.

The Indian women's team is entering the series on a high, following a 2-1 ODI series victory over New Zealand. The White Ferns were outclassed in all aspects of the game, suffering a series of defeats in the subcontinent.

Pacer Titas Sadhu will be making her debut for the Women in Blue in the first 50-over match of the series. Meanwhile, opener Georgia Voll will be playing her maiden game for Australia, according to ESPNcricinfo.

India Playing XI: Smriti Mandhana, Priya Punia, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur , Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh , Deepti Sharma, Titas Sadhu, Priya Mishra, Saima Thakor, Renuka Thakur.

Australia Playing XI: Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Elysse Perry, Beth Mooney , Annabel Sutherland, Ash Gardner, Tahlia McGrath , Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt.

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