Australia’s record-breaking batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk, along with fast bowler Xavier Bartlett have been named in the ODI squad for the West Indies ODIs next month, after Glenn Maxwell and Jhye Richardson were ruled out due to injury.
As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Fraser-McGurk had a great 2023 in the domestic circuit, after moving from Victoria to South Australia. There he achieved the record of slamming a world record ton in 29 balls. The batsman, meanwhile, is currently playing in the ILT20, where he blasted 54 off 25 balls for Dubai Capitals, on his debut.
On the other hand, Bartlett is the this year’s highest wicket-taker in the BBL with Brisbane Heat. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo earlier, the bowler said, that he was some distance away from the national call up.
“I haven’t had communication with the selectors or anything like that. I’m not there yet,” he said. “I’m definitely striving towards playing for Australia, but my short-term goal is just to play some consistent cricket.”
Steve Smith Returns as Captain
With Pat Cummins, other senior players along with Mitchell Marsh rested, Steve Smith will lead Australia for the series beginning on February 2. This will be Smith’s first full-series as a skipper after the infamous Sandpaper Gate episode.
Australia ODI squad vs West Indies
Steven Smith (C), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Lance Morris, Matt Short, Adam Zampa.
Editors pick
