Will Shikhar get his big chance today

Shikhar Dhawan's long wait has finally ended. The 24-year old is likely to make his international debut in the first ODI against Australia at Kochi today.

Star power is missing with the likes of Ricky Ponting, Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Virender Sehwag either rested or ruled out due to injuryu00a0-- but a riveting contest is expected nonetheless when a pool of fresh talent graces this stage for the first time.

With the sun coming out in all its splendour on Saturday, contrary to the rain prediction, the three-match series is all set for a cracking start at the Jawaharlal Nehru International stadium.

Dhawan is expected to open alongside Murali Vijay. "I am even more excited since the opposition is Australiau00a0-- the world champions. Playing against such an opposition will test my skills and allow me to prove to myself if I am good enough for this level."

The southpaw said he was more comfortable making his debut today, as compared to a few years back, because of his close ties with some of India's cricketers.

"Playing for Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils and India 'A', I made a lot of friends, and that helps. I am not nervous about being a part of that dressing room. I know most of the players so there is a comfort level. Hopefully, I can convert that into performances," Dhawan said.

For India, Ravichandran Ashwin will man the role of the chief spinner with Harbhajan Singh given a rest. Australia, too, are experimenting without Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson in their ranks.

A number of these players are unlikely to make the World Cup squad, but will enhance their chancesu00a0 through solid performances in this series.

True blue
The Nehra Stadium will be painted blue during today's one-day international. Each of the 50,000 spectators are expected to wear blue t-shirts, it is learnt. A sports apparel giant will be handing out free t-shirts to each ticket holder. The initiative's aim is to take fan following to another level.

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