Melbourne, September 2(HS):

Australia has announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming T20 international series against New Zealand, marking the return of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. Stoinis joins fellow returning players Mitch Owen, Matthew Short, and Xavier Bartlett, bolstering his contention for a spot in next year's T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka.

The 36-year-old Stoinis had been without a central or state contract for the past year and last represented Australia in November 2024. Though he retired from ODI cricket in February this year, he has remained active in T20 leagues globally, playing pivotal roles for Punjab Kings in the IPL and Trent Rockets in The Hundred, helping both teams reach their respective finals.

However, securing a place in the World Cup squad will remain competitive for Stoinis, with middle-order all-rounders Cameron Green, Tim David, and Mitch Owen also vying for selection. Green will miss the New Zealand series to focus on Sheffield Shield cricket in preparation for the Ashes, while Owen returns after recovering from concussion.

Matthew Short joins the squad after recovering from a side strain. Alex Carey and Aaron Hardie, who were included during the South Africa tour due to injuries to other players, have been omitted. Fast bowler Nathan Ellis will miss the series on paternity leave.

Two senior players, Mitchell Starc, who has retired from T20 cricket, and Pat Cummins, currently recovering from a back injury and aiming for fitness ahead of the Ashes, will also be absent from the tour.

The three-match T20 series will be held at Mount Maunganui on October 1, 3, and 4.

Australia T20 squad vs New Zealand:

Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben McDermott, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar