Australia’s Pat Cummins Supports Expanding World Cup Squad Sizes Amid Squad Challenges

Australia faces selection hurdles in the 2023 World Cup, with key players sidelined and limited options for replacements. Mitchell Marsh‘s departure for family reasons and Glenn Maxwell‘s absence due to concussion protocols have left the team with just 13 available players as they prepare to take on England in Ahmedabad.

Call for Expanding Squad Sizes

Pat Cummins, captain of the Australian team, has expressed his support for increasing the limit on squad sizes at the World Cup. The challenges posed by injuries and unavailability highlight the need for larger squads in a tournament spanning two months.

Cummins stated, “It’s a two-month tournament. You wouldn’t want to be in a position where, say, a team like New Zealand has had some injuries. Luckily, they’ve been able to hold someone like Kane [Williamson] in the squad but if they suddenly had to rule him out, I think that wouldn’t be good for cricket or the World Cup. It’s not like you can poach players from other countries, so I always think as many players as you need, you should be able to pick from.”

Australia’s Selection Challenges

Australia‘s World Cup journey has been marked by several challenges in squad selection. Sean Abbott remains the only member of the 15-man squad yet to feature in the tournament. In a high-intensity format like one-day cricket, injuries and the close proximity of games have created the need for frequent changes.

Cummins acknowledged the importance of having a full squad available, saying, “We knew at the start of the tournament we were going to need a full squad of 15. It’s unfortunate, but we knew over a two-month tournament, you’re going to have to chop and change a bit.”

Australia’s Upcoming Changes

Australia is set to make at least two changes in their upcoming match against England, with Maxwell and Marsh not available. The likely inclusions of Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis are expected to alter the team composition, with Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne returning to their respective positions.

Maxwell is currently under concussion protocols and will not be considered for selection until Australia’s fixture against Afghanistan. Cummins reassured that Maxwell’s injury, stemming from a golf buggy incident, is not severe.

As the 2023 World Cup progresses, Australia remains resilient in the face of selection challenges, with hopes of strengthening their squad as the tournament unfolds. Pat Cummins and the team are determined to navigate these hurdles and strive for success in the competition.

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