Australia has included uncapped spinner Nikhil Chaudhary, born in Delhi, in their squad for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. Chaudhary, aged 30, joins the team as a replacement for Travis Head, who withdrew due to personal reasons. He could potentially be the first Indian-born player to represent Australia in over six decades.
Currently playing for JB Bruges in the EUT20 competition in Belgium after a stint with Delhi Capitals in the IPL, Chaudhary is expected to join the Australian squad in Dhaka on Friday. Competing for a middle-order spot, he will vie with players like Joel Davies and Aaron Hardie, who are also part of the T20I squad.
Australia’s selector, Tony Dodemaide, expressed confidence in Chaudhary’s abilities, citing his impressive performances in the BBL and his experience with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL. Dodemaide highlighted that Chaudhary’s inclusion in the squad was based on his recent form and potential contributions to the team.
The three-match T20I series against Bangladesh will be held in Chattogram, with the first match scheduled for June 17, followed by games on June 19 and June 21. The Australian squad for the series includes players like Mitchell Marsh, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, and Adam Zampa, alongside the newly added Nikhil Chaudhary.
