The three-match T20I series between Australia and India is just two days away.
Australia had a disappointing season so far with consecutive losses against Pakistan and South Africa but will be hoping to turn things around against the Men in Blue.
For the upcoming T20I series, Australia has rested some of their regular players. Steve Smith and David Warner who were suspended by Cricket Australia for the ball tampering incident earlier this year will not be making a comeback for India’s tour.
One of the highlights of Australia’s team for the T20I series against India is the omission of Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh from the 13-man squad. The selectors are keen on striking the balance with the team which has just lost to South Africa. Aaron Finch will be captaining the side once again.
At the top of batting order, Australia will depend on the likes of Finch, D’Arcy Short, and Chris Lynn to rack up the runs. Vice-captain and wicketkeeper Alex Carey too will be featuring in his first series against India. Ben McDermott has been picked as the backup wicketkeeper. Australia will also depend on the T20 experience of Glenn Maxwell in the middle-order.
Among the all-rounders, Australia has an in-form Marcus Stoinis who will be playing his first series against India at home. Stoinis has been exceptional in the last two months against Pakistan and South Africa. Andre Tye, who may know a thing or two about the Indian players, thanks to his stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL) will also have a go against the Men in Blue. Adam Zampa and Ashton Agar are Australia’s spin options with Nathan Lyon rested for the T20 series.
Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, and Billy Stanlake complete Australia’s bowling unit with Starc sitting out of the 20-over format series.
The first T20I will be played on Wednesday (November 21) at the Gabba in Perth.
Australia’s squad for 3 T20Is:
Aaron Finch (c), Alex Carey (vc & wk), Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa
