Wicket-keeper batsman Matthew Wade has been dropped from the squad for the upcoming Australia’s tour South Africa. However, the 33-year-old will be representing his side against New Zealand in the T20 format. Wade has also been appointed as the vice-captain of the T20 team to tour New Zealand. The management opted to go with Alex Carey for the three-Test tour next month.
Besides Alex Carey, the Test team also has uncapped players like Mark Steketee, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Swepson, and Michael Neser. Queensland fast bowler Mark Steketee was in great form in the Big Bash League. Both the tours are likely to take place in March even though there hasn't been any official confirmation of the schedule. Justin Langer will coach the Test squad, while Andrew McDonald will be in charge of the T20I team.
Travis Head, who was out from the series-deciding test against India in Brisbane, is also a part of the team. The batsman will come in as a replacement of Matthew Wade.
Aaron Finch to lead the T20 squad
Aaron Finch is going to lead the T20 squad for the 5-game series against New Zealand. The team also includes emerging spinner Tanveer Sanga and Jhye Richardson. The management has also included T20 stars Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa and Marcus Stoinis. Tanveer Sangha impressed everyone in BBL with the Sydney Thunder, picking up 21 wickets from 14 games.
The Australian cricket board official declared that the T20 squad would not change regardless of any test itinerary changes. Both the cricket boards have not yet signed for the three-test tour as authorities in South Africa battle to contain COVID-19 infections. South Africa has just started a two-test series against Pakistan.
Australia squads for South Africa tour:
Australia Test Squad
Tim Paine (C), Steve Smith, David Warner, Pat Cummins (VC), Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Sean Abbott, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Michael Neser, Josh Hazlewood, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Mitchell Starc, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, Nathan Lyon.
Australia T20 Squad
Aaron Finch (C), Matthew Wade (VC), Glenn Maxwell, Jason Behrendorff, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Marsh, Ashton Agar, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Tanveer Sangha, Josh Philippe, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, D'Arcy Short, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa.