Australia Unveils Squad for Upcoming ODI Series Against Zimbabwe and South Africa
Australia's ODI Squad Announcement
Australia has revealed a 17-member team for their forthcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Zimbabwe and South Africa. This announcement comes as the reigning world champions gear up for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup scheduled for next year.
Series Details
The Australian team is set to compete in three ODIs against Zimbabwe starting September 15, followed by another three-match series against South Africa beginning September 24. The 2027 ODI World Cup will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, making these matches crucial for Australia's preparations.
Key Players Returning, Labuschagne Excluded
Captain Mitchell Marsh and opener Travis Head are making their return to the squad after missing earlier ODI series in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are also included for the South Africa leg of the tour, which precedes Australia's three-match ICC World Test Championship series against the Proteas in October.
Marnus Labuschagne has been omitted from the squad following a series of underwhelming performances. His exclusion opens the door for younger talents, with Joel Davies and Ollie Peake maintaining their spots after strong showings in recent ODIs.
The inclusion of several seasoned players alongside emerging talents provides Australia with a balanced mix of experience and youth as they evaluate their lineup ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Complete Squad and Match Schedule
The ODI series against Zimbabwe will kick off on September 15, followed by the three-match series against South Africa starting September 24.
Australia's ODI Squad
Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins (South Africa tour 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.
Match Schedule Against Zimbabwe
1. First ODI: September 15, Harare
2. Second ODI: September 18, Harare
3. Third ODI: September 20, Harare
Match Schedule Against South Africa
1. First ODI: September 24, Durban
2. Second ODI: September 27, Johannesburg
3. Third ODI: September 30, Potchefstroom.