Adelaide, Oct 21 (NationPress) Following a disappointing start against India in the series opener, Australia’s top-order batsman Matthew Short remains optimistic about scoring runs in the upcoming matches of the three-game series.

Short views the current series as a crucial opportunity to solidify his position in the top order ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, in light of fierce competition. The rain-affected match in Perth marked his 16th ODI appearance since debuting in 2023. Initially positioned lower in the batting order, he later transitioned to open, achieving a career-best 63 against England in the Champions Trophy. However, injuries have hindered his progress—a quad strain prematurely ended his Champions Trophy involvement, followed by a side injury that kept him out of several series. Now fit, Short is eager to capitalize on his chances and establish consistency.

"It's been frustrating… I still feel like I'm moving well. I'm feeling good out in the middle," Short expressed to reporters in Adelaide after scoring just 8 runs in Perth.

"Just haven't got the runs on the board. But hopefully they come soon. It's been a frustrating year in terms of getting that continuous cricket."

Australia is missing Cameron Green (side strain) and Josh Inglis (calf) against India, both of whom would likely be in a full-strength ODI lineup as the team begins to formulate its plans for the 2027 World Cup. With Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head appearing settled as openers, the competition for middle-order spots is anticipated to heighten in the post-Steven Smith and Glenn Maxwell era.

Short, who has made his mark as a top-order batsman with the Adelaide Strikers in the BBL, acknowledges the challenge but remains resolute in seizing every opportunity.

"It's always going to be tough to get a spot in the XI, and I'll adapt to whatever that entails, whether it’s opening, batting at three, or wherever. It’s about being flexible and taking your chance," the batsman stated.

"After the last few years, I’m so accustomed to opening the batting and playing in the top order, but batting at three is not too different. However, if it were to be through the middle, I'd probably need to prepare a bit for that, but it's something I've done previously. If that opportunity arises, I’d definitely embrace it."

Australia had to move their training indoors on Tuesday due to inclement weather, with more rain anticipated on Wednesday. Nevertheless, the forecast is clear for match day, bringing hope for uninterrupted play.

Meanwhile, left-arm seamer Ben Dwarshuis has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI series due to a calf injury. He is currently aiming for a return for the T20I series, which kicks off in Canberra on October 29.