Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland has expressed the fresh Twenty20 recruits would turn out as better prospects for Australia during the three-match Twenty20 International series, beginning February 17 at the MCG against Sri Lanka.
In a media interaction, Sutherland said the overlapping schedule provides an opportunity to a number of players to prove their credentials at the biggest level.
“There’s nothing ideal about the schedule. It evolves and unfolds from year to year – we have challenges with that. But at the same time … a number of players are getting well earned opportunities to represent their country and put their hand up,” Sutherland was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Despite missing the star-packed side for the home series, Sutherland is hopeful to lure the crowd while giving the best opportunity to Big Bash League’s performers – to showcase their talent.
“And who knows, in two or three years time when we host the World T20 in Australia they may well be the players that are walking out for Australia,” Sutherland added.
Following the induction of players, the Australian T20 squad includes Ben Dunk, Michael Klinger, Jyhe Richardson, Ashton Turner and Billy Stanlake.
“But at the same time we’ve got a very strong T20 team, basically the best of the best in the Big Bash League and I’m sure they’ll put on a very good showing against Sri Lanka,” Sutherland revealed.
However, Sutherland has stated Australian flamboyant opener David Warner would be missed as he won’t be available for the T20I series. Following the overlapping of fixtures, Warner is preparing in the UAE for India Test series.
“It’s unfortunate [David Warner] won’t be here and some of the others in that Test team,” Sutherland concluded.
Australian T20I squad for Sri Lanka: Aaron Finch (c), Patrick Cummins, James Faulkner, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Michael Klinger, Chris Lynn, Tim Paine (WK), Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake, Adam Zampa, Ashton Turner and Andrew Tye.