AUS vs WI: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Xavier Bartlett earn maiden call-ups as Australia announce ODI squad

Jake Fraser-McGurk. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

After having a terrific season with the bat in the ongoing edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), youngster Jake Fraser-McGurk earned his debut call-up in the Australian ODI team. In nine matches, the 21-year-old has scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 158.64, which pushed his chances to get into the scheme of things, especially with Glenn Maxwell taking a break from the series.

He is also regarded as one of the prospects of Australian cricket. McGurk enjoyed a brilliant season with South Australia, where he also made a world record after smashing a 29-ball century in the Marsh Cup. He also got international recognition in the process as Dubai Capitals signed the cricketer for the second edition of ILT20.

Xavier Bartlett, on the other hand, is the leading wicket-taker of the ongoing edition of the BBL. Representing Brisbane Heat, the 25-year-old has picked up 17 wickets in nine matches at an economy of 7.63. Notably, Jhye Richardson has been ruled out of the series against West Indies, which eventually helped Bartlett earn his debut call-up.

Regular skipper Pat Cummins rested, Steve Smith to lead Australia in his absence

Meanwhile, all the Test-playing pacers have been given rest. In the absence of Pat Cummins, Steve Smith will lead the side as Lance Morris, Nathan Ellis and Sean Abbott will take care of the pace department. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been handed a break as well but is expected to make his return for the T20Is alongside Maxwell.

In the absence of David Warner, Matt Short is expected to get back into the playing XI. He is having a brilliant BBL as the Strikers’ skipper is the leading run-scorer of the tournament so far. He is expected to open alongside Smith in the match, with Marnus Labuschagne batting at three.

Australia ODI squad vs West Indies –

Steven Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Lance Morris, Matt Short, Adam Zampa