Australia has revealed its 18-player squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India, and it includes some unexpected choices that have surprised cricket fans. The squad features uncapped leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha and inexperienced all-rounder Aaron Hardie, causing excitement among cricket enthusiasts. Surprisingly, Test star Marnus Labuschagne has been left out of the squad, adding to the unexpected developments.
The squad will be reduced to 15 players as the tournament starts on October 5 approaches. However, concerns have arisen regarding Captain Pat Cummins’ fitness, as he suffered a fractured wrist during the recent Ashes series against England. Cummins is determined to recover in time for the opening game against hosts India on October 8. He has been advised to undergo six weeks of rehabilitation and is hopeful of making a comeback before the World Cup begins.
Despite Cummins’ injury, Chief Selector George Bailey remains positive about his recovery and believes the enforced rest could benefit him ahead of the crucial World Cup campaign. Australia’s preparation for the tournament includes a five-match series against South Africa next month, providing opportunities for players like Tanveer and Hardie to showcase their talents and impress the selectors.
Tanveer Sangha, who has been part of previous T20I tours, is yet to make his debut for the national team. His inclusion in the squad adds another spin option alongside Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa, especially considering the spin-friendly pitches in India. On the other hand, Aaron Hardie faces tough competition from the likes of Mitch Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, and Glenn Maxwell for all-rounder spots in the Australian lineup.
Labuschagne’s exclusion from the squad comes as a surprise to many, as he has been a consistent performer for Australia since his debut in 2020 and has only missed eight 50-over matches for his country.
Despite the unexpected selections, George Bailey believes the squad is well-balanced and possesses the necessary skill and experience for a successful World Cup campaign. Australia has a strong history in the tournament, having claimed five World Cup titles in the past (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, and 2015), and they are determined to add another prestigious title to their record.
With stalwarts like Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, David Warner, Mitchell Starc, and Glenn Maxwell in the lineup, Australia remains a formidable contender for the World Cup title. The team’s impressive performance in limited-overs cricket over the years adds to the confidence of both the players and the management.
Australia’s preliminary World Cup squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
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-IANS
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