Cricket Australia made the decision on Tuesday to withdraw all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh from the Hundred tournament.
Originally set to join Trevor Bayliss' London Spirit squad, both the players have been instructed to step back by Cricket Australia to effectively handle their workload leading up to the 50-over World Cup in India and the forthcoming T20 World Cup scheduled for the Caribbean and the United States in the following year.
"In discussions with both players, it was agreed that with a long campaign ahead, including two World Cups, it's in their best interests to be physically refreshed and at their best for the one-day World Cup and beyond. Both are also coming from recent injuries," a Cricket Australia spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo.
On account of a clash with the Lanka Premier League, Sri Lanka's prominent spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, another confirmed signing, is also anticipated to withdraw from the competition. As a replacement for the Manchester Originals, Pakistan spinner Usama Mir, who has recently impressed while playing for Worcestershire this summer, has been lined up. Although Mir is yet to be capped by Pakistan in T20Is, his skills have garnered attention.
(AI image)
Due to an unfortunate Achilles rupture, New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell had to withdraw from playing for the Northern Superchargers. As a potential replacement, Australia batter Matthew Short has emerged as a strong contender. Short notably achieved the highest run total in the most recent Big Bash League season, showcasing his batting prowess.
(With agency inputs).
