Singapore-born puncher Tim David received his first call to action in Australia on Thursday as the host country named a 15-man squad for their T20 World Cup defense and the preceding tour of India.
Known for his huge achievements, the 26-year-old has played 14 T20Is for Singapore in 2019-2020, averaging 46.5 with the racquet. But according to ICC rules, he is immediately eligible to play for Australia.
David has made his name in the game’s shortest format, honing his craft in T20 leagues around the world.
Also read | Pakistan optimistic Shaheen Afridi will play in Twenty20 World Cup after rehab in London
David was born in Singapore to Australian parents before moving to Perth at the age of two. Earlier this year David was bought by IPL members from Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 8.25 crore.
“Tim (David) continues to establish himself with some high-profile performances in leagues around the world and earn a place in the squad,” selectors chairman George Bailey said in a statement.
“He is a highly gifted, natural ball striker who will bring extra depth to a group that has had a lot of success in T20 cricket lately. We expect him to play a role similar to what he has done in the past few years.”
The team of 15, led by Aaron Finch, will travel to India later this month for three T20Is starting September 20th.
However, David Warner has been rested for the tour of India and Cameron Green will come in for the opening star.
“This is a similar squad to the first Australian men’s team to win a T20 World Cup who are now very much looking forward to playing the tournament at home,” said Bailey.
David was added to the squad at the expense of leg spinner Mitchell Swepson, who is the only member missing from last year’s world champion squad.
“Mitchell Swepson was unfortunate to miss the conditions in the UAE at the last World Cup where we planned tired, rotating wickets compared to the good hitting conditions along with the larger facilities in Australia,” Bailey said.
After the brief tour of India, Australia will host West Indies (two games) and England (three games) in October.
Australia’s T20 World Cup Squad: Aaron Finch (c), Pat Cummins (vc), Ashton Agar, Tim David, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
Warner is replaced by Cameron White in the three T20Is against India.
