Travis Head missed out on Australia squad for India series (AFP Image)
Apart from Cummins, other senior stars – Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc also returned to the side for the crucial series.
Australia have announced an 18-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against India which will be a perfect tune-up for them ahead of the mega World Cup which will also be played in India. Flamboyant batter Travis Head failed to make the cut after sustaining a fracture on his left hand in the fourth ODI against South Africa in Pretoria. The southpaw’s absence from the India series has also raised questions about his availability for the ODI World Cup.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, who missed out South Africa series due to a wrist injury, will return to lead the Australia tea, in the three ODIs against India.
Presenting your 18-player squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup, as well as two lead-in series against South Africa and India! 🏆🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/h6jVWYJvMy— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) August 7, 2023
Apart from Cummins, other senior stars – Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc also returned to the side.
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“Cummins (wrist), Mitchell Starc (groin and shoulder) and Steve Smith (wrist) are all at various stages in their recovery from injuries suffered during a gruelling six-Test campaign in the UK earlier this year,” the CA stated.
On Head’s injury, Cricket Australia recently released a statement.
“Head will undertake further medical review on return to Australia before a return to play schedule is determined,” the CA stated.
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After an impressive show in South Africa ODIs, Marnus Labuschagne also retained his place for the India series and will look to get a last-minute entry in the World Cup squad if Head gets ruled out.
Mitchell Marsh is expected to open the innings alongside David Warner in the three-match series starting September 22.
Australia ODI squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
India vs Australia Schedule
September 22: First ODI, Mohali
September 24: Second ODI, Indore
September 27: Third ODI, Rajkot
