Australia Finalizes Its 15-Man Squad For The 2023 World Cup, 3 Players Including Nathan Ellis Left Out

Five-time world champions Australia have finalized their 15-man squad for the upcoming 2023 World Cup. Sean Abbott has been included in the squad, while Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, and Tanveer Sangha failed to make the cut. Australia had announced an 18-man preliminary squad but has now reduced it to 15 as per the requirement of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Along with Ellis, Hardy, and Sangha, Test star Marnus Labuschagne has also missed out on a place in the World Cup.

Chief selector George Bailey expressed confidence in players like Steve Smith, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Starc returning to fitness ahead of the competition. He believes that the Australian team has enough time to continue preparing for the showpiece event. As quoted by the ICC, the former middle-order batsman said:

“Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell are on track in their return to play programs. All are well placed to come back online in the coming weeks and potentially for selection in the upcoming series against India. There are eight one-day matches still to play in South Africa and India before the final squad is due to be declared. They are followed by two World Cup practice games, which offers plenty of opportunity to continue the build for the tournament.”