Glenn Maxwell Returns for T20I Series vs India; Mahli Beardman Debuts

Sydney, Oct 24 (PTI) - Dynamic Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is poised to make his comeback in the T20I series against India, having recuperated from a fractured wrist. This return marks an exciting phase in the series starting in Canberra on October 29, where young fast bowler Mahli Beardman's inclusion has been the talk of the town.

The T20I series, consisting of five matches played after the currently ongoing ODIs, sees the involvement of the 37-year-old Glenn Maxwell and the talented Beardman for the latter three matches. Simultaneously, pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood and versatile bowler Sean Abbott will be available for the initial two and three games, respectively.

Maxwell sustained his wrist injury during a net session before the three-match T20I series against New Zealand last September. His return is much anticipated by fans and teammates alike.

Meanwhile, Mahli Beardman's selection for this high-profile series against India has been met with considerable intrigue, thanks in no small part to his impressive performance in five List A games and a couple of Big Bash matches. At just 20 years old, Beardman was pivotal in Australia's U19 World Cup-winning squad in 2024, claiming three crucial wickets in the final. He had also joined the senior ODI team on their England tour last year, though he did not play in any match.

In parallel to these developments, Australia has also incorporated pace-bowling all-rounder Jack Edwards and left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann into the team for the third and last ODI against India set for Saturday. This adjustment follows the release of Marnus Labuschagne for Sheffield Shield duties.

Labuschagne was initially integrated into the ODI squad before the series opener in Perth after tall pace-bowling all-rounder Cameron Green was sidelined due to minor side soreness. Interestingly, Labuschagne did not play a role in Australia's twin victories which secured the ODI series, and he now returns to Queensland to compete in a Shield game against NSW at the Gabba.

Moreover, wicketkeeper Josh Inglis is expected to rejoin the ODI squad for the upcoming match in Sydney.

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