Aussie Pacer Meredith Joins T20I Squad After Hazlewood’s Calf Strain
Australia’s pace attack for the upcoming T20I series against Scotland has received a boost with the addition of Riley Meredith to the squad. The seasoned fast bowler has been called up to replace Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a minor calf strain during training last week.
Hazlewood’s injury is not expected to keep him out for long, and the selectors are hopeful that the experienced pacer will be fit in time for the T20Is and ODIs against England later in September. However, they may adopt a cautious approach, given the busy home summer schedule that includes five Test matches against India.
“Meredith has been in impressive form during his stint with Somerset in the English domestic season.”
Meredith, who last played a T20I for Australia in 2021, has been in impressive form during his stint with Somerset in the English domestic season. The right-arm quick bagged 14 wickets at an average of 22.78 in the T20 Blast and an additional six scalps in three one-day cup games, including a memorable 4-for-27 performance against Middlesex at Lord’s.
With Hazlewood’s absence, the pace attack for the Scotland series will now feature Meredith, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, and Nathan Ellis, complemented by all-rounders Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Marcus Stoinis. Spin will be provided by Adam Zampa and the uncapped Cooper Connolly.
Australia’s captain Mitchell Marsh will lead the side, which is scheduled to depart for Scotland on Monday. The first T20I between Australia and Scotland is set to take place in Edinburgh on September 4.
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