T20 World Cup: Australia announce their 15-member squad; Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell return

T20 World Cup: Australia announce their 15-member squad; Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell return

Australian Cricket Team

The Australian cricket team has named its 15-member squad for the much-awaited ICC 2021 T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The kangaroos named a star-studded team that marked the return of Steve Smith, who recently recovered from an elbow injury. Moreover, the likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Kane Richardson also make a comeback after missing out on the limited-overs series against West Indies and Bangladesh. On the other hand, Aaron Finch continues to lead the Aussies.

Talking about a surprise selection, Australia picked Josh Inglis ahead of an experienced Alex Carey for the wicket-keeper spot. On this, former Australia skipper and current chairman of selectors, George Bailey said:

“We have some of the best players in the world in their respective roles combined with the collective experience to succeed against the very best T20 sides in the world.”

Australia pick three spinners – Adam Zampa, Ashton Agar and Mitchell Swepson 

Adam Zampa
Adam Zampa is set to lead the Australian spin attack

While keeping the spin-friendly conditions of the UAE in mind, Australia named three regular spinners – Adam Zampa, Ashton Agar and Mitchell Swepson. 

“Given the amount of cricket being played at the World Cup venues, we expect the wickets in the UAE to favour slow bowling, particularly in the later stages, so he gives us another strong leg-spin option,” Bailey added.

Lastly, the Australian squad included three reserve players in the form of Dan Christian, Daniel Sams, and Nathan Ellis. The latter recently grabbed the headlines after picking a hattrick on debut in Bangladesh. 

Aaron Finch’s men are set to kickstart the tournament with the maiden game against South Africa on October 23.

Australia squad for 2021 T20 World Cup: Aaron Finch (C), Pat Cummins (VC), Ashton Agar, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Swepson

Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Daniel Sams, Nathan Ellis

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