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Australia have named a 14-member squad for the three-match T20I series against New Zealand next month in Mount Maunganui, with allrounder Marcus Stoinis making a much-anticipated comeback.
Stoinis, who retired from ODIs earlier this year and has been without a central or state contract for the past 12 months, last played for Australia in late 2024. His return strengthens the middle order and provides valuable experience to the squad.
The team also sees the return of Mitchell Owen, who missed games against South Africa due to concussion, and Matthew Short, who has recovered from a side strain sustained during training in Jamaica earlier this year.
Selectors have chosen to rest captain Pat Cummins as he continues to manage a back injury ahead of the home Ashes summer. Fast bowler Nathan Ellis will also be unavailable as he takes paternity leave. Meanwhile, Cameron Green has been left out to focus on Sheffield Shield cricket as he works towards regaining his bowling rhythm.
Xavier Bartlett has earned a recall, while allrounder Aaron Hardie — who were last-minute replacement in the South Africa series — have not been included this time.
The absence of Mitchell Starc, who recently retired from T20 internationals, opens up opportunities for other fast bowlers. Ellis, despite missing this series, is tipped to benefit in the future, while left-armer Ben Dwarshuis remains in contention after impressive spells in the Caribbean and against South Africa.
The three-match T20I series begins on October 1 at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, with the second and third games scheduled for October 3 and October 4 at the same venue.
Australia squad for New Zealand T20Is: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
Fixtures:
First T20I: October 1, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Second T20I: October 3, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Third T20I: October 4, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
