Australia’s T20 international squad for their upcoming tour of South Africa reflects a fresh wave of talent as they prepare for the post-Finch era. With Aaron Finch’s retirement, all-rounder Mitch Marsh has been appointed as the captain of Australia for the T20 series, bringing his experience and leadership skills to the forefront.
The tour also offers the opportunity for potential international debuts for rising stars such as Aaron Hardie, Matt Short, and Spencer Johnson, who had very impressive Big Bash League 2022 tournament.
In a squad of 14 players, only five incumbents from Australia’s most recent T20 XI were retained, with Marsh, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa maintaining their spots. The rest of the squad comprises fresh faces eager to make their mark in international cricket.
The opening spots are up for grabs, with Smith’s remarkable performances for the Sydney Sixers in the late stages of BBL|12 putting him in contention for a top-order role. After Australia’s early exit from Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, such reformation was expected from the selectors.
Josh Inglish in for Matthew Wade
The selection of Josh Inglis as the sole wicketkeeper in the squad suggests a move away from Matthew Wade, indicating a changing dynamic in Australia’s limited-overs setup. Inglis’s role in the team, whether it be as a late-innings finisher or pushing the established T20 regulars down the order, remains to be determined.
Inglis was drafted into the team for Australia tour of India ODI series a few months back. His stint with Perth Scrotchers was impressive as he played a number of match winning knocks with his unorthodox batting style.
The bowling attack showcases the renowned death-bowler Nathan Ellis, who has already played five T20Is, and the promising Spencer Johnson, whose pace and bounce have made a significant impact in his early career.
With Ashton Agar recovering from a calf injury, Adam Zampa stands as the primary spinner in the squad, while other slow-bowling options come from the likes of Maxwell, Short, and Tim David. This means that the selectors are trying to build a team around all-rounders as team’s core strength.
Matt Short’s off-spin capabilities, honed during his successful stint with the Adelaide Strikers, give him an added dimension as an all-rounder. Short’s tremendous form in BBL|12 catapulted him into impressive performances in domestic cricket, leading to his debut in the high-profile Indian Premier League and subsequently for the hundred.
As Australia gears up for the T20 series against South Africa, the inclusion of new talents and Mitch Marsh as captain will bring sense of newness to the team. This tour serves as a crucial stepping stone in the team’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup, with the T20 leg offering a glimpse into the potential of the next generation of Australian cricketers.
Last time Australia traveled South Africa for a white ball series was back in February 2020. They won the T20 series 2-1 against the home side but ended up losing the 5 match ODI series.
Australia T20 squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
