Australia has given a debut One Day International (ODI) opportunity to Tim David, noted for his strong batting, as they prepare for the forthcoming series against South Africa.
In a spectacular performance, Tim David scorched an astounding 64 runs off only 28 deliveries, playing a significant role in Australia’s dominant 111-run victory over South Africa in the T20I series opening. His inclusion in the ODI squad comes as a timely boost, especially with the absence of Steve Smith due to a wrist ailment and Glenn Maxwell recovering from an ankle injury.
Having developed a reputation as a globetrotting T20 specialist, David’s effect was felt heavily in the Men’s T20 World Cup on home soil last year. Despite having featured in only 16 List A matches during his career, the last of which was over two years ago, his batting average sits at an astounding 82.77, along with a strike rate of 123.14.
During the opening match of the T20I series against South Africa, David went in with Australia at 77/4. His partnership with skipper Mitchell Marsh turned out to be a game-changer, as they formed an incredible 97-run alliance in just 50 balls. The absolute brilliance of his effort was highlighted by the seven fours and four sixes he struck during his thrilling innings.
“Tim is already here for the T20 series which offers an opportunity to see how his game can translate to the one-day format. He will provide an extra option for us in that power role at the back end of an innings,” said selector Tony Dodemaide
Marsh spoke of David’s importance to the Australian team after the match ended. “The great thing about Tim is he’s very level-headed. He knows his role in T20 cricket can be inconsistent,” Marsh said.
“But his ability to win us matches is why he’s in this team and we’ve got full faith in that. I want him to play however he wants to play every game and I know that if he does that, he’ll win us games. He’s an outstanding asset for Australian cricket,” he further added.
Australia ODI squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Tanveer Sangha, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa
