Cricket Australia has announced the squads for 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is to play against India this month, beginning from 19th October with the first ODI. This time, Australia’s selection officials made some interesting calls.
Here are five key takeaways from the squads they announced.
1. End of the Road for Marnus Labuschagne?
Marnus Labuschagne’s time in the white-ball setup appears to be up, as he has found no place in the squad. This is a direct result of his poor form. In his last 10 ODIs, he has failed to make a significant impact, with a highest score of just 44 and an average struggling in the mid-20s.
While not a T20I regular for Australia, his recent performances haven’t justified a recall, signalling the selectors are looking in a different direction.
2. Mitchell Marsh, the All-Format White-Ball Leader
Mitchell Marsh has been entrusted with the captaincy for both formats. With Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins being rested to manage his significant workload, Marsh’s role as Australia’s white-ball leader is now firmly established.
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This move solidifies his position to lead Australia in the 2026 T20I World Cup, and he could be a strong contender for the 2027 ODI World Cup captaincy as well, given Cummins’ deep commitments to Test cricket.
3. The Big Show is Missing
The glaring omission from the list is star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell. He is being rested as part of his workload management after a gruelling schedule. His unavailability is a major setback for Australia.
Maxwell’s explosive middle-order batting, combined with his clever off-spin, provides the team with critical balance and an x-factor that can single-handedly win matches. His absence will be keenly felt against a strong Indian team.
4. Tim David Missing in ODIs
Power-hitter Tim David has been named in the T20I squad but has once again been overlooked for the ODIs.
Having played only a few ODIs for Australia, he is yet to replicate his finishing prowess in the 50-over format. In stark contrast, his T20I career features an impressive strike rate of over 160. It is evident that David has to work more on his game to shine in the selectors’ eyes for the ODI format.
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5. Return of the Senior Guns
After a well-deserved break, key senior players are back in the fold. The return of premier fast bowler Mitchell Starc and dynamic opener Travis Head underscores Australia’s intent to field a full-strength team.
Their inclusion adds immense experience, skill, and firepower to the lineup. This indicates that Australia is taking this tour seriously as they begin building their core group for future tournaments.
– Australia ODI Squad:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
– Australia T20I Squad:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Steve Smith.