Mitchell Starc Returns as Australia Announces ODI Squad Against India

Australia has announced its squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against India, set to begin on October 19. Experienced pacer Mitchell Starc makes his much-anticipated return to the ODI setup, while batter Matt Short also earns a recall. The selection comes as Australia looks to fine-tune its combinations ahead of a busy international calendar, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year.

Starc Returns to Strengthen Bowling Attack

Mitchell Starc, who retired from T20I cricket only last month, is set to return to international duty in the ODIs. His inclusion adds much-needed depth and experience to Australia’s pace attack, particularly with regular captain Pat Cummins still recovering from injury. The left-arm quick will play a crucial role in countering India’s strong batting line-up that includes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Starc’s comeback is part of a broader rotation strategy to manage workloads, especially as Australia transitions between formats. His pace and swing will be vital in subcontinental conditions where early breakthroughs can change the course of matches.

Key Additions and Changes in ODI Squad

Australia’s ODI squad sees four notable changes from the side that faced South Africa last month. Alongside Starc and Short, Matthew Renshaw and Mitchell Owen have been added to the squad. These inclusions bring a mix of youth and experience as the team aims for balance in batting and bowling departments.

Players making way include Aaron Hardie, Matthew Kuhnemann, and Marnus Labuschagne. Labuschagne, one of the team’s key Test players, will continue to play domestic four-day cricket in the Sheffield Shield to prepare for the upcoming Test series against England.

Marsh to Lead in Absence of Cummins

With Pat Cummins still sidelined due to injury, Mitchell Marsh will continue as captain for both the ODI and T20I series. Marsh has impressed in his recent leadership stints and is expected to bring energy and strategic clarity to the squad. His all-round performance will also be critical in maintaining team balance, especially with the absence of a few senior players.

T20I Squad and World Cup Preparation

Australia has also named a 14-member squad for the first two T20I matches against India. The team features several familiar faces such as Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, and Marcus Stoinis, while Nathan Ellis and Josh Inglis make a return after missing the South Africa series.

Chief selector George Bailey emphasized that the T20I series will serve as vital preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year. He stated, “We have named a squad for the ODI series and first two games of the T20 series as there will be some management through the back end of the series as individuals prepare for the summer through Sheffield Shield cricket. The majority of the T20 squad will remain together as it’s an important period in the build towards the World Cup next year.”

Balancing Formats and Player Workload

The selection reflects Cricket Australia’s ongoing efforts to manage player workload across formats. The rotation policy allows players like Labuschagne to stay match-fit for the Test season while ensuring others gain exposure in limited-overs cricket. Bailey also indicated that further changes could be made during the T20I series to maintain the right balance between preparation and rest.

Full Squads and Match Schedule

Australia ODI Squad:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Renshaw, Matthew Short, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa

Australia T20I Squad (First Two Matches):
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Series Schedule:

• First ODI: October 19, Perth
  
  
• Second ODI: October 23, Adelaide

Third ODI: October 25, Sydney

First T20I: October 29, Canberra

Second T20I: October 31, Melbourne

Third T20I: November 2, Hobart

Fourth T20I: November 6, Gold Coast

Fifth T20I: November 8, Brisbane

Australia’s upcoming tour of India promises to be a high-intensity contest between two top cricketing nations. With the return of Mitchell Starc and the inclusion of emerging talents like Matt Short, the series will test Australia’s adaptability and depth. As both sides gear up for crucial international commitments, this series will provide valuable insights into their readiness for the global tournaments ahead.