Ahead of their T20I World Cup opener against Ireland on Wednesday in Colombo, Australia have received a major boost with captain Mitchell Marsh confirming the availability of seamer Nathan Ellis, who is now available for the side after completing his recovery from a hamstring injury. Ellis, a key bowler for Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who have been ruled out of the tournament, has ticked all the required fitness boxes following his rehabilitation. His return will undoubtedly strengthen Australia's bowling arsenal as they prepare to take the field against Ireland.
Meanwhile, Australia have shown a more cautious approach with explosive batter Tim David after Marsh revealed that the middle-order batter will sit out the clash against Ireland as he continues his recovery from a hamstring strain. David has been out of competitive cricket since Boxing Day last year when he suffered the injury while batting for Hobart Hurricanes during the Big Bash League. Given his power-hitting role, the management has decided not to rush him.
"He is not available tomorrow, but we'll certainly see him come back into contention over the next few games," Marsh said at the press conference.
Tim David, who linked up with the Australian T20 squad in Sri Lanka last week, has been training hard since joining the squad. The absence of Tim David may open the door for Matt Renshaw to play his maiden World Cup match.
Australia will be the last of the 20 teams to open their World Cup campaign on Wednesday, which has allowed them time to see novice teams put up great performances against established teams over the past few days. When asked about Australia's preparation in the lead-up to the first game, Marsh asserted that they treat every team the same.
“There's been some great games since the start of the World Cup, and that’s what you want. It’s been awesome to watch so far. We treat every team the same. We prepare the same way, do our homework, and then it’s about going out there and executing on the day. No matter who we’re playing, we have that mentality,” he added.
Australia squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa. Travelling reserve: Sean Abbott