Will Pat Cummins play in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023? Australia’s one-day captain, recently sidelined with a fractured wrist, is racing against the clock. Despite this setback, the 6-week recovery period should enable him to participate in some of the ODIs in South Africa and India, setting the stage for the World Cup in October.
Cummins, relatively new to his captaincy, sustained the injury during the final Ashes Test. Consequently, he’ll miss the three-match T20I series against South Africa beginning on August 30, creating uncertainty in the lead-up to the subsequent five-match ODI series. Another surprise is the exclusion of Marnus Labuschagne from the ODI squad, despite his consistent presence over the last three years.
In contrast, Tanveer Sangha and Aaron Hardie have been named in the 18-player squad. The NSW leg-spinner and the Western Australia allrounder, both yet to make their international debut, now have a shot at the World Cup. Sangha, returning from a stress fracture, and Hardie, a regular in Australia A squads, offer fresh energy to the lineup.
Mitchell Marsh will take the helm for the T20I series against South Africa. Several key players, including Mitchell Starc, David Warner, and Ashton Agar, will join the squad for the ODIs following the T20I series.
Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell will take a break for the South Africa ODI series due to paternity leave, returning for the series against India. This run of games will lead directly into the 50-over World Cup, creating a tight schedule.
REVEALED: Will Pat Cummins Play In The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023?
Cummins plans to join the squad in South Africa, though his wrist injury may rule him out of the first ODI. Possible captains in his absence could be Marsh, Steven Smith, or Alex Carey, each of whom has prior leadership experience.
George Bailey, chair of selectors, perceives Cummins’ injury as an opportunity for much-needed rest, following his demanding role during the Ashes. He remains confident about Cummins’ World Cup preparation, expecting him to join during the South African ODI series. “There are a number of games before the World Cup, enough for strong preparation,” Bailey said.
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Despite his promising start, including a century against South Africa, Labuschagne has struggled lately. His average has slipped to 22.30 in his last 14 ODI innings. Bailey expressed hope for Labuschagne’s future role, saying, “Leading into the World Cup, there’s an opportunity for others, and clear direction for Marnus.”
With an 18-man squad set to be trimmed to 15 by early September, it’s a crucial period for the Australian team. Whether it’s Cummins’ recovery or Labuschagne’s omission, the road to the 2023 World Cup presents its share of hurdles and opportunities.
Australian ODI squad: Pat Cummins (capt), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa
