Australia's Twenty20 captain Mitchell Marsh and his test teammates will not participate in the upcoming three-match series against Pakistan in November. This decision comes as they focus on preparing for the highly anticipated test match against India.
On Monday, it was announced that none of Australia's test regulars were included in the squad for the matches in Brisbane, Sydney, and Hobart. This allows them to concentrate on the first test against India, which begins in Perth on November 22.
Cricket Australia mentioned that some T20 players might join the test squad after the final T20 at Bellerive Oval on November 18, but head selector George Bailey clarified that this was merely a contingency plan in case of injuries.
Bailey emphasized that the priority is the preparation for the test summer. He also noted that if circumstances change, they can arrange for a player to join the team in Perth.
This decision is a setback for players like Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell, who might have hoped for a test call-up to fill the batting spot left vacant by Cameron Green's season-ending injury. Steve Smith will move down the order to replace Green at number four, creating an opening in the partnership alongside Usman Khawaja.
Bailey stated that Inglis is not being considered as a potential test opener, but his current form is impressive. He could be considered for other batting positions if the right opportunity arises.
The T20 squad includes seamers Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, and Spencer Johnson, who are returning after injuries sustained during the white-ball tour of England and Scotland in September.
Bailey mentioned that the captain for the team will be announced closer to the opening match of the series at the Gabba on November 14.
Australia squad: Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
