India vs Australia 2020: Australia Revamp their Team with a New Coach & Fresh Faces for the ODI Tour

Australia’s selector announced the ODI squad for the upcoming India vs Australia series in January. The squad saw a few faces as Australia made seven changes from the squad that played in the World Cup.

Most notably, Marnus Labuschagne was introduced for the first time into the ODI setup. The 25-year old’s career took a significant turn since being introduced as a concussion substitute for Steve Smith in the Ashes earlier this year. Three consecutive centuries in test matches has now seen him take a leap into the top 10 Test batsmen. His limited overs credentials were on display in the domestic Marsh One-day cup where he averaged 60.

“We believe Marnus Labuschagne is ready for his international white-ball debut after his strong form for Queensland in this form of the game,” Australia’s selector Trevor Hohns was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Labuschagne will most probably be joined by Peter Handscomb in the middle order, with Glenn Maxwell not being selected.

In the bowling department, Australia picked Aston Turner over Nathan Lyon and sticked to leg spinner Adam Zampa. Fast bowlers Sean Abbot and Kane Richardson earned a call up after a good T20 campaign.

“Ashton Turner has proven himself in India with his ability to adapt to local conditions as did Peter Handscomb who joined the squad at the most recent World Cup,” Hohns reasoned his selection.

“Peter also doubles as a backup ‘keeper if required while Ashton Agar adds to the squad with his all-round abilities.

“In terms of the bowling group we are sticking with combination that are performing well. Sean Abbott and Kane Richardson are in the squad following the successful T20 campaign.

“Adam Zampa and his growing combination with Agar is also something the selectors want to see more of while Nathan Lyon remains in the one-day squad selection frame.”

Australia will also have a fresh face in the head coach position. Andrew McDonanls will take the place for the first time with Justin Langer rested.

The India vs Australia tour of three ODIs will be played from January 14 to 19, starting in Mumbai.

Australia squad: Aaron Finch (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey (vc), Pat Cummins (vc), Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, David Warner, Adam Zampa