Last Updated on 1 year by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Mitch Marsh named as new Australia T20 captain | Mitchell Marsh unveiled as new Australia T20I captain
In a huge show of confidence, talented all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been named Australia’s new T20I captain. Marsh will replace Aaron Finch, who retired from international cricket in February 2023.
The next World Cup is under a year away, to be played in the West Indies and United States of America (USA). Australia’s preparation for that tournament is set to begin later this month, with a three-match T20I series away in South Africa starting in Durban on August 30.
Given the number of stars the Proteas possess in the T20 format, the series represents a baptism of fire of sorts for Marsh.
Australia’s new T20 captain: selectors show faith in Mitchell Marsh
Marsh has captaincy experience under his belt. He took over from Adam Voges as Western Australia (WA) captain back in 2017, where he enjoyed immediate success. He guided WA to the One-Day Cup title that season and also won the Laurie Sawle Medal, which is awarded to the best and fairest WA male cricketer.
It will be interesting to see how captaincy at international level impacts Marsh. Should it elevate his game further, Australia will be well-placed given his all-round talent.
Marsh has already helped the team win a T20 World Cup title. Back in 2021, he starred in the Final, smashing 77* off 50 balls to make a mockery of New Zealand’s 172. He was named man of the match.
Also, Marsh, who previously declined the role of full-time ODI captain, may lead the team in the three-match series in South Africa due to Pat Cummins’ injury worry. Cummins suffered a fractured wrist in the final Ashes Test, and may be given extra time to recover ahead of the World Cup in India.
Australia name T20I squad for South Africa series
Australia have announced their T20 squad for the South Africa series. There are new faces, with Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie and Matt Short all included.
The three matches will be played on August 30, September 1 and September 3. All matches are to be held at Kingsmead, Durban.