Australia's dynamic opener, David Warner, is set to miss the concluding T20I against New Zealand in Auckland, sidelined by an adductor injury. However, fans and the Australian team can breathe a sigh of relief as Warner is anticipated to recover well in time for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, which kicks off next month. Warner, who was given a break during the series' second T20I on Friday as part of Australia's player rotation policy, is now in a race against time, with his estimated recovery period being around seven to ten days.
"Warner will require a brief recovery period which is not expected to affect his availability for the upcoming Indian Premier League leading into the ICC Men's T20 World Cup," a Cricket Australia (CA) statement said.
End of bilateral series for David Warner
This development marks a poignant moment as it concludes Warner's run in bilateral international matches for Australia, aligning with his impending retirement from international duties post the T20 World Cup in June. Warner's most recent performance, a spirited 32 runs off 20 balls in the series opener in Wellington, was met with boos from the local crowd, a throwback to similar reactions during the 2016 tour, which Warner had previously highlighted.
With Warner sidelined, the spotlight turns to Steven Smith, who now has a golden opportunity to cement his position for the upcoming World Cup. Despite Smith's modest score of 11 runs off 7 balls in the second T20I, which featured a daring scooped six, his prospects of starting in the World Cup appear slim, given the strong competition for the top-order positions.
Constant changes in Australia T20I playing XI
Matt Short, who appeared in the Wellington match without making a significant impact, is poised for another chance in the team lineup. There's also speculation about Mitchell Marsh being rested in preparation for the Test series, potentially leading Matthew Wade to assume captaincy duties for the upcoming match.
Australia's bowling lineup is likely to see changes as well, with Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood expected to sit out Sunday's game following their participation in the first two matches. This provides an opportunity for Mitchell Starc and Spencer Johnson to step into the playing XI as replacements, showcasing Australia's depth in their bowling resources as they head into the final T20I against New Zealand.
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