May 2nd 2024.
New Delhi: Newly-appointed T20I captain Mitchell Marsh has given an explanation for why Jake Fraser-McGurk was not included in the 15-man T20 World Cup squad. According to Marsh, the Australian squad is well-rounded and the current openers, Travis Head and David Warner, have been performing exceptionally well in the last 18 months, making them the top choice for the upcoming mega event.
The 2021 T20 World Cup champions announced their squad for the 20-over tournament on Wednesday, and the omission of Fraser-McGurk and former captain Steve Smith from the 15-player group came as a surprise to many. Fraser-McGurk has been in top form for the Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League, scoring three half-centuries so far. Many believe that the right-hander has proven his skills enough to earn a spot in the T20 World Cup team for the Caribbean and USA, which is set to begin on June 1.
Speaking on an Australian radio station SEN, Marsh praised Fraser-McGurk, saying, "Jakey is an exceptional talent. The way he has taken on the IPL has been remarkable, and his teammates at Delhi have been enjoying his company and what he brings to the team. There is no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him, no matter where he plays."
Fraser-McGurk has scored 259 runs in the 2021 IPL so far, hitting 23 sixes in six innings for the Delhi Capitals, ranking him sixth for most maximums at the event. Marsh, however, believes that the Australian squad is well-equipped with all the necessary skills. "Travis Head and David Warner have been outstanding for us, not just for a long time, but especially in the last 18 months leading up to this World Cup. We are confident that we have the right 15 players to take us far in the tournament," he stated.
When asked if he expects Fraser-McGurk to be a part of Australia's white-ball teams immediately after the T20 World Cup, Marsh replied, "Absolutely, no doubt about it." He also praised Fraser-McGurk's rapid development, saying, "He has made quick progress. There is a lot of talent that has been identified from a young age. We saw a glimpse of it during the Big Bash this year, and we all know how tough the IPL can be. You can't afford to take a step back, and that is exactly how Jake plays his cricket. He has a promising future ahead of him."
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