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The anticipation for the T20 World Cup 2024 is palpable, with cricket enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the clash of titans in the USA and West Indies. As teams gear up for the prestigious tournament, former Australian captain Aaron Finch has stirred the pot by revealing his predicted XI for the event.
No place for Steve Smith
In a recent interview on ESPN’s Around The Wicket show, Finch left no stone unturned as he outlined his strategic picks, aiming to craft a lineup capable of clinching the coveted trophy. However, his choices have sparked debate and controversy, particularly the omission of veteran player Steve Smith.
Batting lineup dynamics
Smith’s absence from Finch’s lineup is notable, considering his proven track record and ability to anchor the innings in pressure situations. The Aussie named David Warner and Travis Head as his preferred opening pair, highlighting their established roles as aggressive batters capable of setting the tone for the innings.
Finch then moved on to mention Mitchell Marsh, emphasizing the all-rounder’s valuable contributions with both bat and ball. He also picked Glenn Maxwell and showed confidence in Maxwell’s abilities as a dynamic middle-order batter and occasional off-spinner.
Aaron Finch named batter who could fill Smith’s shoes
Finch went with Josh Inglis as his next pick and described him as versatile, capable of fulfilling a role similar to that of Smith. However, Finch also highlighted Inglis’s prowess as a finisher, indicating his versatility and adaptability in different match situations.
“I would go with Warner and Head, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell he comes back in and then Josh Inglis. He’s so versatile. He can play the role of almost the one Steve Smith plays but also a finisher as well,” said Finch.
Toss-up between two stars
Finch had a toss-up between Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Short as potential options for the team. He acknowledged that the pitches in the Caribbean tend to favor spin bowling, indicating that having a spinning option like Matt Short or Marcus Stoinis could provide the team with an advantage in such conditions.
“Then, I’ve got Macus and Matt Short. In the Caribbean the wickets can spin a lot so I’d like to have the option of Matt Short there or Marcus if you feel you might need the extra cover,” added Finch.
Also READ: Irfan Pathan names Team India’s captain for the T20 World Cup 2024
Power hitter and bowling combination
Next, Finch addressed Tim David‘s inclusion in the team despite his recent form not being at its peak. He spoke about David’s extraordinary power-hitting abilities, which could prove to be valuable assets for the team despite any temporary dips in form.
Finch mentioned his choices for the team’s bowling lineup, highlighting four bowlers whom he believes would be suitable for most sides around the world. The former Aussie skipper went with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa.
“Tim David, he hasn’t been in his greatest form but the power that he’s got is extraordinary and then the four bowlers that I think would make most sides around the world’s XI,” Finch signed off.
Aaron Finch’s Australia XI for T20 World Cup 2024:
David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis or Matthew Short (conditions dependent), Tim David, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
