In order to fine-tune their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2022 next month, Australia are set to play two T20Is against West Indies at home.
For the West Indies T20I series, slated for October 5 and October 7 in Queensland and Brisbane, the defending world champions have recalled their four marquee players.
Opener David Warner, speedster Mitchell Starc, and all-rounders Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis have returned to the squad after missing the recent series against India, which Australia lost 2-1.
While Warner was rested for the T20I tour of India, Starc, Marsh, and Stoinis couldn’t take part in the series due to injuries.
All-rounder Cameron Green has also been included in the squad, after his impressive exploits against India. He registered scores of 61, 5 and 52 in the three T20Is and also returned with two wickets. Though he isn’t featuring in the 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, consistent performances might help Green earn his place there.
Right-arm pacer Kane Richardson and spinner Ashton Agar have been given a rest while Aaron Finch will continue to lead the side.
“We have and are taking a cautious approach with the World Cup on the near horizon. To have four key players return gives us the ability to take a conservative path with any minor issues and resolve those well in time for the World Cup. As such we anticipate Kane and Ashton will return for the following series against England,” National Selection Panel chairperson George Bailey said, as quoted by ICC.
Australia will begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against New Zealand at Sydney Cricket Ground on October 22.
Australia squad for West Indies T20Is: Aaron Finch (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Sams, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
Australia’s T20 World Cup squad: Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins (vc), Tim David, Aaron Finch (c), Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
