Australia, the defending champions, have had a difficult buildup to their T20 World Cup defense. But Aaron Finch’s side should not be overlooked when they enter tournament gear this week. An unfinished or incomplete Australia’s victory in the UAE last year was the consequence of outstanding collaboration. And 14 of the 15-man squad will compete for a repeat victory on home soil in the coming weeks.
Since blanking the twice-champion West Indies earlier this month, Australia has lost two warm-up matches against England and another against India in Brisbane on Monday, as selectors tinker and players rest. Finch’s half-century against India. On the other hand, was a welcome return to form. And Australia gained additional relief on Tuesday when Pat Cummins was named captain of the one-day team.
Australia set to win T20 World Cup
Australia brings a balanced lineup with no obvious weak links, albeit with minor concerns over Mitchell Marsh’s fitness. And the condition of fellow all-rounder Glenn Maxwell. Tim David, the team’s lone newcomer, adds firepower. And finishing punch to the fearsome top order and versatile middle order.
With the exception of David, Australia’s selectors are expected to continue with their tried-and-true recipe in an attempt to make history. By being the first country to win back-to-back World Cups.
The selectors’ faith in the fast bowling trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins paid off in the UAE. So they will be wary to separate them in Australia. Spinner Adam Zampa is expected to perform well as a counterbalance to the fast bowling attack. Having finished second in wickets with 13 in last year’s competition.
Marsh will bat third after opening with Finch and fellow opener David Warner in last year’s final victory over New Zealand. If any players are injured, Australia has plenty of alternatives. Outside of the squad, Cameron Green is a talented all-rounder, and Kane Richardson is a capable backup seamer.
Australia will face New Zealand in a rematch of last year’s Super 12 final at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday. A convincing victory over the Black Caps they have dominated at home for almost a decade. It would be a major confidence boost ahead of what could be a deciding match against England the following week in Melbourne.
