Australia’s Key Players Face Fitness Challenges Ahead of T20 World Cup
With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup just around the corner, Australia is keeping a close eye on the fitness of two crucial players.
All-rounder Mitch Marsh is grappling with a hamstring injury and has recently left the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) to return to Australia for further rehabilitation.
Mitchell Marsh showcased his power-hitting skills with several big sixes in Pune.
Marsh is anticipated to recover in time for Australia’s first match at the T20 World Cup against Oman on June 5. However, it is uncertain whether the 32-year-old will return to India to play for the Delhi Capitals in the latter part of the IPL.
Despite modest scores of 20, 23, 18, and 0 in his four innings for Delhi, Marsh is expected to play a pivotal role in Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign when the ninth edition of the 20-over spectacle kicks off in the USA and Caribbean in June.
Marsh is likely to be appointed as Australia’s full-time captain in the shortest format before the T20 World Cup. Coach Andrew McDonald hinted last month that the hard-hitting No.3 was the obvious choice for the role after his impressive performances in recent series against the West Indies and New Zealand.
“I think all roads will lead to Mitch, so just got to get that ticked off in certain areas,” McDonald said, discussing the vacant T20 captaincy role.
“We’re happy and comfortable with the way he’s been able to operate with that T20 team.
“We think he’s the leader for the World Cup, and I think that will just be a matter of due course.”
Top-order batsman David Warner is also dealing with an injury. The seasoned Australian opener injured his finger while batting in the IPL on Friday.
Warner was struck on the finger while playing for the Delhi Capitals against the Lucknow Super Giants. His fitness is being monitored ahead of his team’s next match against the Gujarat Titans on Wednesday.
Warner is expected to open the batting with Travis Head for Australia at this year’s T20 World Cup.