Image Credit- AAP
With Glenn Maxwell rested and Jhye Richardson left out
due to injury, Australia’s ODI squad to play the West Indies next month
includes uncapped pace bowler Xavier Bartlett and record-breaking young batter
Jake Fraser-McGurk.
Fraser-McGurk, who is thought to be among the nation’s
most intriguing batting prospects, had a breakthrough domestic season following
his move from Victoria to South Australia. In the Marsh Cup earlier this
season, he struck a world record of 29 balls for a century. He replaces
Maxwell, who Cricket Australia claims is being “managed” ahead of the
Twenty20 Internationals against the West Indies and New Zealand.
Prior to making 257 runs at a strike rate of 158.64
and a seam average of 32.12 for the Melbourne Renegades in the BBL,
Fraser-McGurk also achieved his first-class century against his old team. He
made his ILT20 debut for Dubai Capitals a few days ago, hitting 54 off 25
balls.
Richardson, who ended his Perth Scorchers career
earlier this month due to a side strain, is replaced by Bartlett, the highest
wicket-taker for Brisbane Heat this season. His accurate outswing has drawn
attention and helped the Heat gain crucial powerplay wickets. He has also been
an important player in the dying stages of the game.
In preparation for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan
the following year and the upcoming four-year cycle leading up to the 2027
World Cup, where they will defend the championship they won in India,
Australia’s ODI team is focusing on regeneration.
With David Warner’s retirement, Matt Short will have
the opportunity to start the batting, Aaron Hardie will effectively replace
Marcus Stoinis, and Lance Morris will make his debut.
For the three ODIs, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and
Josh Hazlewood—the all-format quicks—have been rested. With Mitchell Marsh
rested, Steven Smith will serve as the team’s captain.