A host of key players have been locked in to return as Australia announced their squad for this month’s ODI series against Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The Aussies will play three matches against Zimbabwe from September 15 and another trio of matches against the Proteas from September 24 as the reigning champions prepare for next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
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The 50-over World Cup next year will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia and as such the Aussies have treated these upcoming matches with respect as a host of experienced players return to their 17-member squad.
Skipper Mitch Marsh and fellow opener Travis Head return after they missed the 50-over series in Pakistan and Bangladesh earlier this year, while pacers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are named for the South Africa portion of the tour ahead of the three-match ICC World Test Championship series with the Proteas that commences in October.
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Marnus Labuschagne drops out of the Australia squad after a lean run across formats, with youngsters Joel Davies and Ollie Peake maintaining their places in the squad following some decent efforts during the series in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
“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.
“As such it’s great to have Mitch (Marsh), Travis and Josh returning, then Pat and Mitch (Starc) for the SA leg. This gives us our core of players mixed with some we think will continue to make an impression.
“For Ollie and Joel, who we rate very highly, it’s another fantastic opportunity and a further chance for them to continue their exposure and growth in the Australian team.”
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Australia ODI squad: Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins (South Africa only), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc (South Africa only), Adam Zampa
First ODI: September 15, Harare
Second ODI: September 18, Harare
Third ODI: September 20, Harare
Series schedule (v South Africa)
First ODI: September 24, Durban
Second ODI: September 27, Johannesburg
Third ODI: September 30, Potchefstroom
