New Delhi, September 1: Cricket Australia has announced its squad for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Zimbabwe and South Africa, omitting Marnus Labuschagne due to his poor form. Labuschagne has struggled to score runs across all formats for an extended period.
His disappointing performance in the ODI series against Pakistan and Bangladesh contributed to his exclusion. In the three-match series against Pakistan, Labuschagne managed only 24 runs. In June, during the three ODIs against Bangladesh in Mirpur, he scored just one half-century. His bat also remained silent in the recent two-Test home series against Bangladesh.
The decision to drop Labuschagne comes as Australia prepares for the upcoming ODI World Cup. The return of Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head to the ODI team, along with the intention to give opportunities to younger players, has made Labuschagne’s path challenging. Selectors have opted to provide chances to emerging talents.
Joel Davis, who performed exceptionally well in the T20 series against Bangladesh, has been included in the squad. Additionally, Ollie Peake, who made his debut in the ODI series against Pakistan, has retained his place in the team.
Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh have been selected only for the South Africa ODI series, while Cummins will captain Australia in the Zimbabwe series. Josh Hazlewood is part of both series.
George Bailey, Cricket Australia’s chief selector, stated, “This six-match series is crucial for the World Cup next year. The return of Marsh, Travis, and Josh, along with Pat and Stark for the South Africa series, gives us a mix of our core players, some of whom we believe will continue to make an impact. It’s a fantastic opportunity for Ollie and Joel.”
Australia is taking the Zimbabwe and South Africa series seriously, as both countries will host the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Australia will play three ODIs against Zimbabwe on September 15, 18, and 20 in Harare. The series against South Africa will take place on September 24, 27, and 30.
Australia’s squad for the ODI series against Zimbabwe and South Africa includes: Javier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Joel Davis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Mitchell Marsh, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, and Adam Zampa.
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