Marsh, Head rested for Pakistan ODIs

Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head have not been included in Australia’s 14-man squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan at home. Both players have been granted paternity leaves, which implies another opportunity for exciting youngster Jake Fraser McGurk at the top of the order. Matthew Short, who was impressive on his recent white-ball leg outing in the UK, is set to open the innings alongside McGurk. The series will also feature Pat Cummins who hasn’t played ODI since the 2023 ODI World Series final. 

The vastly experienced bowler will be accompanied by his pace partners Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Stac as the trio is set to take the field together for the first time since the final. 

This series also marks the comeback of Marcus Stoinis, who is back in the mix courtesy of the injury cloud surrounding Cameron Green who has been officially ruled out of the Australian simmer with a back stress fracture. 

Green’s injury means another chance for Stoinis in a format where he hasn’t played since midway through the showpiece event. He, however, will face tough competition from Aaron Hardie who across the white ball formats enjoyed a hugely successful UK tour. The remainder of the squad picks themselves as the selectors have gone with the same group that tasted glory in England recently. 

The ODI series commences at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 4 followed by matches at Adelaide Oval (November 8) and Optus Stadium (November 10), Perth. 

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa