Marnus Labuschagne dropped as Australian Cricket Team announce preliminary squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

The same 18-men squad to play against South Africa and India before the CWC 2023.

The anticipation surrounding Australian Cricket team squad for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2023 has taken an unexpected twist with the exclusion of Test sensation Marnus Labuschagne. Marnus who has played overall 30 ODIs with a decent strike rate of 83.20 for Australia doesn’t make it to the 18-men squad of Australia who will be traveling to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The Australian Cricket team have raised eyebrows by including uncapped leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha and emerging all-rounder Aaron Hardie. This surprising development comes as Australia aim to clinch their sixth World Cup title.

Labuschagne, who has displayed exceptional prowess in Test cricket, has been an integral part of Australia’s lineup in recent times. His absence raises questions about the team’s strategy and the composition of the squad for the limited-overs format.

The surprise inclusions of uncapped leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha and emerging all-rounder Aaron Hardie have added an intriguing dimension to Australia’s World Cup preparations. While Sangha has previously been a part of T20I tours, his debut in the 50-over format is awaited. Sangha’s spin skills could offer a valuable alternative alongside experienced spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa, particularly on the spin-friendly pitches that are anticipated in India.

On the other hand, Aaron Hardie’s emergence as a contender for an all-rounder slot reflects Australian Cricket team’s emphasis on versatility. Hardie’s presence could potentially challenge established players such as Mitch Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, and Glenn Maxwell as the team seek the optimal balance between batting and bowling prowess.

Chief selector of Australian Cricket team George Bailey throws light on Pat Cummins

George Bailey highlighted the team’s strengths and experience, expressing confidence in Australia’s potential to secure a sixth World Cup title.

“This side has been extremely impressive for several years in limited-overs cricket. There is an enormous amount of skill and experience in the group, which you need in a World Cup.” said Bailey.

Chief selector George Bailey’s assertion that Pat Cummins‘ enforced rest was due to a fractured wrist that he faced during the recently concluded Ashes series remains pivotal, and his recovery timeline will be closely monitored as the World Cup approaches. While George Bailey believes that there are enough games before the World Cup in 2023.

“We view a period of enforced rest for Pat as a positive ahead of this important World Cup campaign. There are still a number of games he could play before the World Cup, which is more than enough for him to have a strong preparation,” said George Bailey.

Australian Cricket team’s preliminary World Cup squad:

Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

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