Australia's Big Guns Return for ODI Series Against Pakistan
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| Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, and Josh Hazlewood are all named in the squad, adding strength and experience to the lineup./ Getty |
Australia have named a strong 14-player squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, with captain Pat Cummins making his much-anticipated return to the 50-over format.
This will be Cummins’ first appearance in an ODI since leading Australia to victory in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup final last year against India. The series marks Australia’s final preparation ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which will be hosted in Pakistan.
Cummins, who played a pivotal role in the World Cup final with figures of 3/34, will be joined by all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, also returning to the squad after an absence. Australia have bolstered their line-up with experienced campaigners including Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, and Josh Hazlewood, as they aim to fine-tune their team ahead of next year’s Champions Trophy.
Notably missing from the squad are top-order batters Travis Head and Mitch Marsh, who are both on paternity leave. Young talents Cooper Connolly and Jake Fraser-McGurk retain their spots after showing promise in recent outings, while all-rounder Aaron Hardie is poised to build on his impressive performances against England last month.
One significant absentee is Cameron Green, who has been ruled out for up to six months due to a back injury, dealing a blow to Australia's all-rounder depth.
Selection Chair George Bailey emphasized the importance of the series in the context of Australia’s broader preparations.
"This is our last ODI series before the Champions Trophy, and the squad balance reflects our focus on both that event and the upcoming Test summer," said Bailey.
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| Pat Cummins will play his first 50-over match for Australia since the memorable ICC Men's Cricket World Cup final victory against India last year, where he delivered a brilliant 3/34 in his 10-over spell. / Getty |
The series is set to begin on November 4 in Melbourne, followed by matches in Adelaide and Perth.
Australia ODI Squad:
Pat Cummins (c), 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
Series Schedule:
- First ODI: November 4, Melbourne
- Second ODI: November 8, Adelaide
- Third ODI: November 10, Perth