Thursday, 21 September 2017: Australia captain Steve Smith believes his one-day international squad can push India, despite being underdogs to level the series in Kolkata.

Injury and an interrupted lead-up will be no excuse for Australia as they attempt to level the one-day international series with India, says skipper Steve Smith.

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Fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc are both in Australia recovering from injuries.

Opener Aaron Finch's sore calf thrust debutant Hilton Cartwright to the top of the order in a rain-curtailed loss in Chennai.

Former Test batsman Ed Cowan has slammed the selectors, likening the touring party to a development squad.

"This is not the series to be blooding players," Cowan told Fox Sports.

Cowan took aim at the selection of Cartwright, who averaged 16.83 for Western Australia in last year's domestic one-day cup.

But Smith is confident his underdog outfit can push India on their home turf.

"We still believe in these guys. They've got a lot of talent," Smith said.

"We've got a team here that can hopefully challenge India in the next couple of games."

Despite a dryer day on Wednesday, both sides were prevented from training on the Eden Gardens practice wickets.

While the Australians have been restricted to indoor nets sessions, Smith isn't concerned about their preparation since arriving in Kolkata.

"I don't think it will have a big impact," Smith said.

"Guys are in a fine space. It's just been about topping up as much as we can indoors and getting a few things right.

"But no excuses from us, we're ready to go."

Thunderstorms are forecast to clear on Thursday, but could cause another shortened match on what doesn't appear to be a typical Indian pitch.

"There's a little bit of grass on it, probably more than I've seen in India for a while," Smith said.

James Faulkner's lacklustre performance with the ball in the first match may put him under pressure to retain his spot.

Kane Richardson is the other fast-bowling option in the squad and could be used if the pitch retains its grass covering.

"You might give it a bit more of a roll and you might even cut it," Smith said.

"We'll have another look in the morning and we'll decide our team then."

Pace bowlers Nathan Coulter-Nile and Pat Cummins were impressive in Chennai. Legspinner Adam Zampa will be keen for an improved performance, with Ashton Agar also in the squad.