In a recent development, Australia appointed wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis as the new white-ball captain for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan. Inglis will also lead the team in the final ODI, as the Test players—including Pat Cummins, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood—prepare for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against India in Perth.
Inglis takes over from Pat Cummins, who is focusing on the upcoming Test series, and Mitch Marsh, the regular T20I captain, who is on paternity leave. Josh Inglis, who has prior leadership experience in domestic cricket, has earned the selectors’ trust. “Josh is an integral member of the ODI and T20I teams and a highly respected player on and off the field,” said national selection panel chair George Bailey. “He has led Australia A previously and will bring strong tactical nous and a positive approach to the role.”
With several key players absent, Australia added pace bowlers Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Johnson, along with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Philippe, to the squad.
Australia will look to extend their lead in the second ODI, following a thrilling 2-wicket victory in the first match at the MCG. Pakistan, batting first, was dismissed for 203, with only Babar Azam (37) and Mohammad Rizwan (44) offering significant resistance. Despite a late surge from Naseem Shah, Australia’s bowlers dominated the innings. In response, Haris Rauf’s 3-wicket haul gave Pakistan a chance, but Cummins held his nerve, finishing unbeaten on 32 from 31 balls to secure the win. With the senior players rested for the final ODI, Australia will aim for a series win.
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