Australia have finalized their 15-member squad for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, slated to be held in India from October 5 to November 19.
Last month, the five-time champions named a provisional squad of 18 players but trimmed that to 15 on Wednesday (September 6) with the quadrennial event now less than one month away.
The three unlucky players to make the final cut were all-rounder Aaron Hardie, pacer Nathan Ellis and young spinner Tanveer Sangha. Test star Marnus Labuschagne also missed out on selection.
Fast bowler Pat Cummins will lead the side, with seasoned campaigners Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc providing him support with the new ball. Sean Abbott is also part of the squad as back-up pacer. Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa are the spinning options.
There were no surprises among the batters, with David Warner, Steve Smith and Travis Head featuring in the side alongside all-rounders Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green.
Alex Carey and Josh Inglis are the two keepers in the squad, with former being the first choice after he did well at the last World Cup in England and Wales.
Australia are dealing with a few injury concerns and the final 15-member squad will be confirmed to the International Cricket Council by September 28.
“Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell are on track in their return to play programs. All are well placed to come back online in the coming weeks and potentially for selection in the upcoming series against India," selection chair George Bailey said.
“There are eight one-day matches still to play in South Africa and India before the final squad is due to be declared. They are followed by two World Cup practice games, which offers plenty of opportunity to continue the build for the tournament.”
Australia will open their World Cup campaign against hosts India at Chepauk on October 8.
Australia’s World Cup Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc.
