Cricket news - Opening slots for World Cup still up for grabs: Finch

With the opener David Warner expected to return to the national fold after the completion of his suspension period in March, Aaron Finch observed that Australia haven't yet nailed on their team combination at the top of the order ahead of the World Cup.

The limited overs skipper also pointed out that Australia are ready to 'juggle' with the batting order in order to strike the right balance. Both Warner and Steven Smith would be available to play once their suspension period ends.

For the time being, Alex Carey, D'Arcy Short and Usman Khawaja are the contenders to open the batting with Finch in the first T20I against India in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (February 24).

"Whatever we feel is the right combination at the time. I don't think anything is out of question," Finch told reporters. "There's things you can juggle around in one-day cricket. I've batted in the middle order a little bit over the last little while, Davey has done it. It's a huge opportunity for guys to step up and almost cement their place, for the next little while," he added.

However, both Warner and Smith are recovering from their respective elbow injuries, and it could take time for the duo to get the 'feel' and power back into their games. "That should be in the back of your mind as well (elbow injuries), that if things don't go 100 per cent right with their rehab or they have some complications with it and they're not back in time (for the World Cup)," he noted.

Finch also was pleased that Matthew Hayden, who had a successful time with the bat in India, joined the Australian camp and gave valuable insights about playing in unfamiliar climes. The former Australian opener is in India for commentary duties.

"It was great to have JL's (Justin Langer's) great mate and a legend of the game, and somebody who has had so much success in India, come back and get around to a few of the boys," Finch said.