ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Australia has announced squad changes ahead of the third ODI against Pakistan in Perth. Xavier Bartlett, Spencer Johnson, and Josh Philippe have been added to the squad, stepping in for key players preparing for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith will sit out the third ODI as they finalize preparations for the Test series against India. This reshuffling follows Lance Morris’s inclusion in the ODI squad in Melbourne, where Hazlewood was allowed to participate in the Sheffield Shield to bolster his Test form.
Josh Inglis will captain the Australian side for the third ODI and the subsequent T20 series, marking him as the 30th ODI and 14th T20I captain for Australia. Selectors Chair George Bailey praised Inglis, highlighting his tactical knowledge and leadership skills, stating: “Josh is an integral member of the ODI and T20I teams and a highly respected player on and off the field. He has led Australia A previously and will bring strong tactical nous and a positive approach to the role.”
Inglis will be supported by senior players, including Matt Short, Adam Zampa, Glenn Maxwell, and Marcus Stoinis, as Australia aims to conclude the series on a high note.