(Cricket news) Mitchell Marsh the Australian all-rounder has been named captain of a 14-member Australia squad that’ll face West Indies in an upcoming three-match T20I series. Marsh takes over as the captain of the side, having previously done so in South Africa in last year.

Marsh’s appointment as the captain also makes him one of the potential contenders to lead Australia in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Cricket Australia are yet to confirm who’ll lead the side at the T20 World Cup later this year. Matthew Wade however, led the side in the series against India straight after the 50-over World Cup, so Marsh’s appointment came as bit of a surprise.

Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper in the other two formats and another captaincy candidate, has been rested for the series along with Mitchell Starc to manage the minor physical issues of both the fast bowlers. They are expected to return for the series against New Zealand which will mark Australia’s last T20 assignment before the World Cup.

Senior batter Steve Smith has also not been picked in the squad. He has been rested after being trialled as an opener in the series against India post the ODI World Cup. Matt Short, who had an exceptional Big Bash League this season this year, scoring 541 runs , is expected to open the batting with David Warner, who remains active in this format.

Glenn Maxwell and pace bowler Nathan Ellis also return to the squad after being rested for the ODIs. The opening game of the series will be played on the 9th of February at Hobart.

Australia T20I squad vs West Indies: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

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