Josh Hazlewood, currently ranked second in the ICC’s ODI bowling rankings, might face being benched during the upcoming World Cup in India due to team balance and subcontinent conditions.
Despite being a consistent performer for Australia in white-ball cricket since the pandemic began, the team might opt for other players depending on the match requirements.
For instance, if Australia wants to include Ashton Agar as a second spinner or Cameron Green for batting depth, Hazlewood could miss out.
Hazlewood emphasized that Australia’s approach to team composition, used during the recent Ashes campaign, would apply to the World Cup as well, given the diverse conditions in India.
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Different line-ups were tested during Australia’s ODI series against India and South Africa earlier this year. With Pat Cummins recovering from a wrist injury, the team will share captaincy duties in his absence.
A permanent deputy captain will be decided before the World Cup starts in October. Australia’s ODI series against South Africa begins on September 7 in Bloemfontein.
(With Inputs from Fox Sports)