CA Under Fire for Resting Key Players Ahead of Crucial ODI

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has voiced his frustration with Cricket Australia's (CA) decision to rest key players ahead of a series-defining ODI against Pakistan, calling it a slap in the face for the whole team and organization.

The decision to rest players including ODI captain Pat Cummins, top fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, and batsmen Marnus Labuschagne and Steven Smith, sparked outrage among cricket fans and the media after Australia suffered an eight-wicket defeat in the third ODI. The team, led by Josh Inglis, ultimately lost the series 2-1 to Pakistan at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The match marked the end of the limited-overs leg of Australia's home season, with the team already focused on the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series against India where the players were originally intended to play.

Clarke questioned whether playing all Australian teams equally held value to CA, as many fans indicated how disappointing this decision was. Mr. Clarke noted that this in turn may be detrimental to Australian cricket development, particularly with limited opportunities to grow their overall depth and talent pool. He further emphasized the 11-day gap between the third ODI and the first Test, stating that it would have been the ideal time to field a full-strength side. With plans underway to optimize next summer's travel schedule, CA is undertaking a comprehensive analysis to balance commercial interests and team performance went somewhat unaddressed by Hockley. The Saudi backed 2023 India Australian tour itinerary is saddled with many long-haul flights ahead of each series thus requiring optimal planning.