Australia name full-strength T20 squad for New Zealand tour
Source: Google
In 2023, Australia clinched the Cricket World Cup with stellar performances throughout the tournament. Led by exceptional leadership and skilful players, Australia showed dominance in both the batting and bowling departments. The team’s unwavering determination and strategic gameplay were evident in crucial matches, securing victories against formidable opponents.
Their cohesive team effort, backed by meticulous planning and execution, propelled them to the Championship title. The triumph ignited a nationwide celebration and cemented Australia’s legacy as a cricketing powerhouse. This remarkable victory will be remembered for years to come, inspiring future generations of cricketers and solidifying the Australian team’s reputation in the cricketing world.
Australia are dealing with some minor injury
Batter Matt Short suffered a low-grade hamstring injury in the second ODI against the West Indies, all-rounder Aaron Hardie will take his place in the squad for the home T20s against the West Indies. Short is expected to be fit to head to New Zealand, as is Nathan Ellis, who also faces a fitness test later this week in his recovery from a rib injury.
Mitch Marsh will continue as captain of the side ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in June, New Zealand will announce their squad for the three-game series likely to be named during next week’s second test against South Africa in Hamilton. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Steve Smith will all return after being rested for their upcoming three-match home series against the West Indies, which starts in Hobart on Friday.
Australian chief selector George Bailey said, “The next six games will provide us the opportunity to start shaping what we think our World Cup squad will look like and potential roles within that,”
“We will also fully utilise the opportunity to monitor and watch the performances of the Australian players in the IPL (Indian Premier League) immediately preceding the World Cup,” he added.
Australia’s T20 squad to tour New Zealand: Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
February 21: First T20, Wellington
February 23: Second T20, Auckland
February 25: Third T20, Auckland
