On Tuesday, the squad for Australia’s upcoming three-game Twenty20 series against India were released to mixed reviews.
So just how well did the selectors do this time around?
Aaron Finch (c): A+
Currently listed by the ICC as the best T20 batsman in the world, the captain of the team is always going to get selected.
Scott Boland: B
The shortest form of cricket is undoubtedly Boland's best, the Victorian is worthy of selection at this level and was a good pick.
Cameron Boyce: A+
Has been doing the job for Australia and Hobart at this level now for some time now, and has been doing it very well. As great as seeing Brad Hogg selected would haveve been, Boyce is the better and logical option.
James Faulkner: A
Very impressive bowling average at this level of the game and a great batting reputation down the order, Faulkner is one of those players who comes very handy when the game is in the balance.
John Hastings: A-
Has done the job for Australia at this level before, and has an impressive domestic record. A good solid bowling choice.
Travis Head: A+
The form T20 batsman in the world right now after some sublime knocks in the Big Bash this season. Will become a regular in the Australian squad in all three forms in the next few years. An exciting talent.
Nathan Lyon: A+
Has stated many times that he is keen to take up post as the number one spinner for Australia across all three forms. Still has some work to do to take the position off Boyce but is just about Australia’s best bowler right now.
Chris Lynn: A+
Has been the shining light for the Brisbane Heat this year. Will be good to see him get a shot for Australia.
Glenn Maxwell: C
Believe it or not, The Big Show’s most ordinary form of the game (statistically) is T20. While he can certainly hit the ball and is a useful part-time spinner, I personally am never a fan of seeing Glenn Maxwell play for Australia. Has blown his chance too many times before.
Shaun Marsh: C
While his domestic T20 performances have been strong of late, his 13 appearances for Australia in this form have been very ordinary. Probably time to blood younger batsman in this form of the game.
Kane Richardson: C
If there’s any form of the game in which he deserves a shot in Australian colours, it’s this one. Got in over a few more deserving names but has been good in the Big Bash League and has shown signs of life for Australia.
Steve Smith: A+
World’s best batsman, end of story.
Shaun Tait: A
This one was either everyone’s favourite or least favourite selection. I tend to lean towards the former. Whilst he is old to be making his t20 international return, he has been fantastic at this level for both country and club.
Andrew Tye: A-
Those who know Andrew Tye well were happy to see his name called out. Has been good in the BBL for years now and it will be good to see the old-timer get a crack for Australia. His Perth teammate Jason Behrendorff will be wondering whom he has to ask.
Matthew Wade: A+
Best wicketkeeper in the country and has been a great servant for club and country in this form. Won’t stop Tim Paine from being disappointed however.
David Warner: A+
Back where he started his cricketing life, everyone loves watching David Warner bat at this level. How could you not choose him?
Shane Watson: B-
Has been decent in his 48 twenty20 internationals but at age 34 and with plenty of youngsters keen to get a go it’s understandable some are unhappy with his selection. This viewpoint is bolstered by Watson’s ordinary form at international level of late.
Overall: A-
Some good selections, some nice backing of youth, but as usual, there will always be some questionable calls. The Australian selectors had their fair few this time around but I am happy to back them considering their current success at ODI level.
