Josh Inglis has been named Australia’s stand-in captain for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan. The 29-year-old wicket-keeper-batter earned the captaincy over seasoned players Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, a testament to his recent form and rising influence within the squad.
Inglis, who played a key role in Australia’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign in India last year, is set to lead the T20I squad and also the final match of the three-game ODI series. This leadership opportunity comes as Australia’s Test regulars, including Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith, step aside to prepare for the highly anticipated Test series against India.
“Josh is an integral member of the ODI and T20I teams and a highly respected player on and off the field,” said selection chair George Bailey. “He has led Australia A previously and will bring strong tactical nous and a positive approach to the role. Josh will receive great support from the likes of Matt Short and Adam Zampa, along with senior players including Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis.”
Inglis’s rise has been swift, especially following the retirement of veteran keeper Matthew Wade. Born in England, he has become a central figure in Australia’s white-ball teams, providing stability behind the stumps and adding firepower with the bat. His new role as captain underscores the selectors’ confidence in his abilities and leadership potential.
Australia’s decision to rest Test players like Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood is also an indication of the high stakes of the forthcoming Test series against India, as well as the depth of Australia’s white-ball squad. Young talents such as pacers Spencer Johnson and Xavier Bartlett have been included for the final ODI, while Josh Philippe and quick Lance Morris will provide additional backup.
The ongoing ODI series has seen Australia narrowly clinch the opening match against Pakistan by two wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The series now moves to Adelaide and Perth for the last two games on November 8 and November 10, respectively.
Following the ODI series, the T20I matches against Pakistan are set to take place in Brisbane, Sydney, and Hobart between November 14 and November 18. This will give Inglis the chance to further prove his mettle on home soil as a leader, backed by a versatile squad including Matthew Short, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, and experienced all-rounders like Stoinis and Maxwell.
The Australia T20I and ODI squads for this series feature a balanced blend of youth and experience, highlighting the team’s commitment to developing future leaders while preserving the competitive edge essential for international success.
