Explosive opening bat Aaron Finch will continue leading Australia’s T20I side in upcoming the three-match series against Pakistan, it was confirmed on Friday, October 5.
The 14-member squad saw the inclusion of the uncapped Ben McDermott, the 23-year wicket-keeper batsman, who plays for Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League.
Remarkably, like with their Test team, where Mitchell Marsh and Josh Hazlewood were named deputies to Tim Paine, Australia have opted for two vice-captains in the shortest format too – Marsh and Alex Carey will share those duties.
“Chris Lynn has responded well from his shoulder injury and was professional during his rehabilitation,” said Langer. “He’s had an outstanding campaign in the JLT Cup to date and reminded us how explosive and powerful a cricketer he can be.”
Nathan Coulter-Nile, who last represented Australia in October 2017, also makes his international comeback after a lengthy injury layoff, and will form a potent pace attack alongwith Mitchell Starc, Billy Stanlake and Andrew Tye. Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa and Ashton Agar are the lead spinners.
“Ben McDermott is another young player who has been rewarded for taking his game to the next level. He’s put in the hard work to improve his strength and fitness, and there’s no doubt it’s been a key factor behind his impressive form in the JLT Cup. He’s performed well in the BBL, and he’s an outstanding young bloke,” said Langer.
After the conclusion of the Test series, the T20I series will kick off at Abu Dhabi on October 24, followed by two games in Dubai.
Squad: Aaron Finch (c), Mitch Marsh (vc), Alex Carey (vc), Ashton Agar, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Lynn, Nathan Lyon, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa