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Australian cricket stalwart Michael Hussey has voiced his discontent with the rushed scheduling of the T20I series between India and Australia.
Immediate transition from World Cup to T20I Series
The swift commencement of the five-match T20I series between India and Australia, merely four days after their intense encounter in the ODI World Cup 2023 final on November 19, has drawn attention. This quick turnaround has naturally resulted in the absence of several key World Cup stars from both teams in the ongoing series.
Michael Hussey’s displeasure with the scheduling of IND vs AUS series
In a conversation with SEN Radio, Hussey voiced his disappointment regarding the immediate commencement of the T20 series merely days after the conclusion of the World Cup. He contended that this swift shift has resulted in the devaluation of the ongoing five-game contest.
“I certainly feel like this T20 series has been devalued. It doesn’t cheapen the World Cup but it certainly cheapens this series. There would be a number of guys who were at the World Cup (for both nations) would probably be in their T20 teams. They got home to either prepare for a Test series or simply to have a break,” Hussey said.
“This is certainly not the best Australian T20 team going up against the best India T20 team,” the 48-year-old added.
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Impact of rigorous cricket calendar
Hussey further lambasted the international cricket calendar, emphasizing the strain it places on players both physically and mentally. The overdose of cricket matches, particularly in quick succession, poses a significant challenge to the well-being of athletes, raising concerns about their overall fitness and form.
“It’s just amazing how much (cricket boards) pack on a calendar to play so much cricket. It is physically and mentally impossible to play all of the tournaments that are going on,” the Australian stalwart concluded.
Key players’ participation and absence
In the Indian squad, only Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Prasidh Krishna from the World Cup squad are actively participating in the T20I series.
On the Australian front, notable World Cup contributors such as Steve Smith, Adam Zampa, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis and Sean Abbott have returned home after the initial stage of the series, leaving Travis Head as the sole member of Australia’s World Cup-winning squad to continue featuring in the ongoing series. As of now, India holds a 2-1 lead against the visitors.
