Pat Cummins has been named captain, replacing Marnus Labuschagne, as Australia unveiled their 18-man squad for the forthcoming 2023 World Cup in India on Monday. According to Cricket Australia, the lineup for their next ODI series against South Africa and India, which will be contested in the lead-up to the premier tournament, will remain the same. Before the competition, the preliminary squad should be reduced to a 15-player list.
2023 World Cup Australia
After it was revealed that the fast bowler had played the fifth Ashes Test while possibly sporting a broken wrist, there were questions as to whether Cummins would be able to participate in their tour of India the following month. George Bailey, the chairman of Australia’s selectors, has now acknowledged that Cummins has “an undisplaced fracture of his left radius, which requires six weeks rehabilitation.” He is anticipated to travel with the group, though, for their ODI series in South Africa later this month.
“We see Pat’s forced rest as a benefit heading into this crucial World Cup campaign. Before the World Cup, he still has a lot of games left to play. Which is more than enough for him to have a solid preparation”. According to Bailey.
Cummins has only twice captained Australia in ODI games, with his most recent appearance coming in November 2022. Marnus Labuschagne, one of the first names on the Australian Test teamsheet, has been disregarded in the meanwhile. The Australian Test teamsheet includes Labuschagne as one of the first names, however, he was passed over. Earlier this year, Labuschagne participated in Australia’s ODI series in India. Labuschagne has averaged 31.37 in 30 ODI games.
Opening alternatives
The lineup includes inexperienced all-rounder Aaron Hardie and uncapped leg spinner Tanveer Sangha. David Warner, whose performance has drawn criticism, notably in Test cricket, is also included in the squad. Although Australia may also consider Mitchell Marsh in the role given his aggressive efforts against India earlier this year as an opener in Warner’s absence, he is poised to open the innings with Travis Head.
A five-match ODI series between Australia and South Africa will begin on September 7. Before the World Cup begins, they will play a three-match ODI series against the Rohit Sharma-led team in India. In limited-overs cricket, this team has been particularly impressive for a number of years, according to Bailey. “The group has a tremendous amount of skill and experience, which is essential in a World Cup.” Early in September, the ODI team is expected to be reduced to 15. The alterations are permitted until September 28, at which point they require ICC approval.
2023 World Cup Australia Squad
Sean Abott, 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 and Adam Zampa make up the Australia squad for 2023 World Cup.
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