Australia’s cricket team has made key changes to its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head both taking paternity leave. Their absence has paved the way for Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short, who are expected to open the batting.

In another major development, all-rounder Cameron Green has been left out of the 14-man squad as he is set to undergo back surgery, which will sideline him for six months. His absence leaves Australia without a vital all-rounder as they prepare for the ODI series and the upcoming Test summer.

Pat Cummins returns as captain for the first time since leading Australia to victory in the 2023 World Cup. He had missed the recent white-ball tour of England and Scotland to rest. Marcus Stoinis, who was previously left out of the England tour, has been recalled to the squad.

The squad also includes young talents Cooper Connolly and Aaron Hardie, showcasing the selectors’ strategy to balance experience with rising stars.

Chief selector George Bailey highlighted the importance of this series in preparing for the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan in February 2025. Bailey stated, “This is our last ODI series before the Champions Trophy, and the balance of the squad was focused on that, as well as preparing individuals for the upcoming Test summer.”

The three-match ODI series will be played in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth. A squad for the subsequent three-match T20I series will be announced later.

Australia ODI squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.

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