Australia’s 17-member squad for the ODI series against Zimbabwe and South Africa has been announced, with skipper Mitchell Marsh and opener Travis Head returning to the team. Notably absent is top-order batter Marnus Labuschagne. Marsh and Head missed earlier 50-over series in Pakistan and Bangladesh this year. The series, starting September 15, is crucial as Australia gears up for next year’s ODI World Cup, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Australia have named the squad without an official captain, with Marsh set to lead the side in the three-match ODI series in Zimbabwe before regular ODI and Test captain Pat Cummins returns to take charge in South Africa along with fellow pacer Mitchell Starc. Youngsters Joel Davies and Ollie Peake have retained their places in the squad following decent performances during Australia’s recent series in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Marsh has stepped in for Cummins 15 times since the fast bowler was appointed Australia’s ODI captain.
Cummins has also indicated that he will not feature in all three ODIs in South Africa, meaning Marsh is likely to deputise once again, according to cricket.com.au. “This six-game series is an important lead-in to next year’s World Cup, being played in the same countries, for the group,” selection chief George Bailey said in a statement.
