Australia Announces ODI Squad for Pakistan Series
Australia’s cricket team has revealed significant changes to its squad ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan. The most notable absences include Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, who are both taking paternity leave. Their departure opens the door for Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short, who are expected to open the batting together.
In another critical development, all-rounder Cameron Green has been excluded from the 14-man squad as he prepares for back surgery, which will sideline him for six months. Green’s absence is a significant blow for Australia as they gear up for both the ODI series and the forthcoming Test summer.
Pat Cummins, who missed the recent white-ball tour of England and Scotland for rest, will return to captain the ODI team for the first time since leading Australia to victory in the 2023 World Cup. Marcus Stoinis has also been recalled after being overlooked for the England tour.
The selectors have included promising young talents Cooper Connolly and Aaron Hardie. This decision highlights their commitment to balancing experience with emerging stars. Chief selector George Bailey emphasized that this series is vital for preparing for the Champions Trophy. The tournament will be held in Pakistan in February 2025.
“This is our last ODI series before the Champions Trophy, and the balance of the squad was focused on that, as well as preparing individuals for the upcoming Test summer,” Bailey stated. He also praised the team’s resilience during the UK tour, highlighting their outstanding performance despite facing illness and injury challenges.
Australia will play three ODIs against Pakistan, with matches scheduled in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth. A squad for the subsequent three-match T20I series will be announced later.
Australia One-Day Squad
| Player |
|---|
| Pat Cummins (capt) |
| Sean Abbott |
| Cooper Connolly |
| Jake Fraser-McGurk |
| Aaron Hardie |
| Josh Hazlewood |
| Josh Inglis |
| Marnus Labuschagne |
| Glenn Maxwell |
| Matthew Short |
| Steve Smith |
| Mitchell Starc |
| Marcus Stoinis |
| Adam Zampa |
