Australia has named its squad for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, and it's causing a stir with some notable absentees. Veteran Steve Smith, rising star Jake Fraser-McGurk, seasoned campaigner Jason Behrendorff, and versatile player Matt Short didn't make the final cut, surprising many fans.
In a twist, left-arm spinner Ashton Agar gets a recall despite not featuring in a T20 International since the last World Cup held in Australia in 2022. The squad also includes Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, and Cameron Green, providing a strong all-round option alongside the experienced Glenn Maxwell.
Mitchell Marsh will lead the team, marking his official elevation to full-time T20I captaincy alongside the squad announcement.
Selection chair George Bailey expressed confidence in the squad's balance, believing it's well-equipped for the challenges in the West Indies and the USA.
Bailey stated, “This is an experienced squad with extensive World Cup experience that offers a variety of structures and covers the scenarios the panel believes will factor in the West Indies with the unique nature of the venues and our opponents."
He highlighted the return of Ashton Agar, emphasizing his importance alongside other all-rounders like Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cam Green, and Mitch Marsh.
However, Bailey acknowledged the tough decisions in finalizing the squad, recognizing the unfortunate exclusions of several talented players. He mentioned ongoing monitoring of these players and the possibility of changes in accordance with ICC regulations.
Mitchell Marsh, thrilled at his appointment as captain, expressed his excitement, saying, “It's been an immense privilege to play for my country and now an even greater honor to lead the squad to a World Cup."
Australia's T20 World Cup journey kicks off against Oman in Barbados on June 5, followed by clashes with England, Namibia, and Scotland in Group B.
The full squad includes: Mitchell Marsh (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
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