Australia has announced its surprise selections for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. The 18-member squad includes the uncapped leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha and inexperienced all-rounder Aaron Hardie, while Test star Marnus Labuschagne has been omitted from the squad.
In other news, Mitchell Marsh has been named the new T20 captain for the upcoming tour to South Africa. This decision comes after selectors revealed that Test and one-day skipper Pat Cummins has a fractured wrist but is expected to be fit for the World Cup. Marsh will lead the squad for the first three T20 matches, filling the void left by Aaron Finch’s retirement. However, several key players including Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Cameron Green, and David Warner will be rested for the tour.
Chairman of selectors George Bailey stated that Cummins has an undisplaced fracture of his left radius, requiring six weeks of rehabilitation. He is expected to join the squad during the South African ODI series. Bailey emphasized that the period of rest for Cummins ahead of the World Cup is viewed as a positive, allowing him to have a strong preparation.
The T20 squad for the South African tour will feature rising all-rounder Spencer Johnson, power-hitter Matthew Short, and left-arm seamer Aaron Hardie, all earning their maiden national call-ups. Jason Behrendorff will also return to national colors for the first time since the 2022 Pakistan tour.
Australia is widely regarded as the most successful team in the history of ODI cricket, winning over 60 percent of their matches. They have made a record seven World Cup final appearances and have emerged victorious in the tournament five times. The team has also won the ICC Champions Trophy twice, making them the first and only team to become back-to-back winners in the tournament.
With a total of 978 ODI matches played, Australia’s impressive record speaks for itself. The upcoming ODI World Cup in India will be another opportunity for them to showcase their strength and talent on the international stage.
Overall, Australia’s ODI World Cup squad surprises have brought some new faces into the mix, aiming to make a mark in the tournament. With a perfect blend of experience and fresh talent, the team will be eager to continue their winning legacy and add another World Cup title to their already impressive collection.
