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In a strategic leadership move, Australia have named a new captain for the third ODI and the forthcoming T20I series against Pakistan. This decision comes as part of Cricket Australia’s rotation policy, aimed at managing player workloads and fostering leadership opportunities within the squad.
Following Australia’s thrilling win in the first ODI, the decision to change the white-ball captain reflects the selectors confidence in emerging talent. Pat Cummins, the Test captain, who along with Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will skip the third ODI against Pakistan to concentrate on the upcoming five-match Test series versus India. To bolster the ODI squad, pacers Spencer Johnson and Xavier Bartlett have been called up, along with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Philippe.
New ODI and T20I captain for Australia
Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who has been a standout performer in recent matches, will lead the Australian side for the first time at the international level. He will take charge during the final ODI against Pakistan at Perth Stadium and throughout the T20I series.
Also READ: Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc shine in Australia’s thrilling win over Pakistan in 1st ODI
Inglis was instrumental in Australia’s successful ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign in India last year, and with Matthew Wade recently retiring, the 29-year-old now stands as the first-choice wicketkeeper in both limited-overs formats.
“Josh is an integral member of the ODI and T20I teams and a highly respected player on and off the field,” selection chair George Bailey said in his official statement on Wednesday.
“He has led Australia A previously and will bring strong tactical nous and a positive approach to the role.
“Josh will receive great support from the likes of Matt Short and Adam Zampa, along with senior players including Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis.”
Australia’s revised squad for the ODI series against Pakistan
Pat Cummins (captain for 2nd ODI), Josh Inglis, (captain for 3rd ODI), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett (3rd match only), Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood (2nd match only), Spencer Johnson (3rd match only), Marnus Labuschagne (2nd match), Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Josh Philippe (3rd match only), Matthew Short, Steve Smith (2nd match), Mitchell Starc (2nd match), Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
