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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 Beardman took 8 BBL wickets; Edwards claimed 15 for Sydney Sixers this season
- 2🏆 Both uncapped players earn maiden international call-ups against Pakistan
- 3💡 Senior stars Maxwell, Ellis, Hazlewood, Cummins rested for injury recovery
- 4🔮 T20I series in Lahore (Jan 29-Feb 1) crucial World Cup preparation window
"Ten players who are in Australia's T20 World Cup squad will be part of the three-match series in Pakistan"
Australia has handed international debuts to uncapped pace bowler Mahli Beardman and allrounder Jack Edwards for the three-match T20I series against Pakistan, rewarding their impressive BBL performances. The 20-year-old Beardman and Edwards have been included in a 17-man squad that will serve as crucial preparation ahead of next month's T20 World Cup.
Fresh Faces Rewarded for BBL Form
Beardman's eight wickets for Perth Scorchers and Edwards' 15-wicket haul for Sydney Sixers caught the attention of selectors, with both players previously having brushed shoulders with international cricket. Beardman was part of the T20I squad against India earlier this season, while Edwards had brief exposure in the ODI group.
The selection strategy reflects Australia's depth and rotation approach as they build toward the World Cup. Senior stars Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Ellis, Tim David, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins have been rested, with workload management and injury recovery taking priority. These players will instead join the squad in Sri Lanka following their BBL commitments.
Mitchell Marsh will continue leading the side as Australia faces Pakistan in Lahore on January 29, 31, and February 1. The series provides an ideal window for emerging talent to stake claims for World Cup selection while established players recover ahead of the tournament's opening match.
