Australia has announced a 13-player squad for the three-match T20I series against Pakistan, which begins on November 14 in Brisbane. A new squad of T20 specialists and white-ball regulars will represent Australia, including fast bowlers Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson, who are returning from injury, as the Test regulars prepare for their five-match series against India.

Since the squad is missing players with captaining experience, especially in Australia, it is up to the selectors to appoint a new captain for the series. Regular white-ball captain Mitchell Marsh and Test skipper Pat Cummins will be in Perth for Test preparations, meaning Australia will see a new leader in charge of three T20 matches. This unique setup reflects the split focus on the T20 series against Pakistan and the crucial Test series against India, which begin in Perth on November 22.

White-ball mainstays Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa and wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis anchor the squad. Inglis, the only player in the T20 squad with a remote chance of being selected for the India Tests, is being considered for the role of Australia’s red-ball opener. But rising stars like Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney are pioneers in this position.

The selection of the new T20 captain has sparked speculation; Inglis, Maxwell and Zampa emerged as potential candidates. Maxwell, who captained the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League, brings significant leadership experience, while Zampa’s international experience and Inglis’ recent consistency make them a strong contender.

Chairman of selectors George Bailey expressed his excitement at the team’s potential. “This group of players have consistently shown their talent in T20 cricket and we are excited to see them continue to gain international experience. The return of Xavier, Spencer and Nathan to the national set-up is particularly encouraging,” Bailey said. “This series offers them another chance to showcase their talents on the international stage.”

The series kicks off at the Gabba in Brisbane on November 14, followed by matches in Canberra and Hobart.

AUSTRALIA T20I TEAM: Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa