Mitchell Marsh Out of ODI Series Against Pakistan; Josh Inglis to Lead Australia
Australia Faces Setback Ahead of ODI Series
Australia has encountered a significant challenge for their forthcoming ODI series against Pakistan, as captain Mitchell Marsh has been sidelined due to an ankle injury. In his absence, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will take on the captaincy for the three-match series set to commence on May 30, according to the ICC.
Inglis has previously captained Australia in one ODI and three T20Is against Pakistan in November 2024. The all-rounder showcased impressive form during the recent Indian Premier League (IPL) season, scoring 563 runs in 13 matches with a strike rate of 163.18. He will remain in Perth for further evaluation and treatment. Marsh missed the Lucknow Super Giants' final IPL match against Punjab Kings on Saturday and returned to Australia after LSG's game against Rajasthan Royals on May 19. He was expected to lead the Australian team in the series starting May 30, with most players arriving in Rawalpindi over the weekend.
Australian Squad Depleted for Pakistan Tour
Following the Pakistan tour, Australia is scheduled to head to Bangladesh for a series that includes both ODIs and T20Is, although Marsh's participation in that tour remains uncertain. He joins a list of notable absentees from the Australian squad, which also includes pace bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Additionally, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, and Ben Dwarshuis were excluded from the squad for the Pakistan series as they were anticipated to play in the IPL playoffs. However, their franchise, Punjab Kings, struggled, losing six of their last seven matches and failing to qualify for the playoffs.
Australia's ODI Squad for Pakistan
The Australian squad for the ODI series against Pakistan includes: Josh Inglis (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Riley Meredith, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Tanveer Sangha, Liam Scott, Matt Short, Billy Stanlake, and Adam Zampa.