As Kane Richardson, the original choice bowler decided to stay away from cricket and spend time with his family, especially the newborn son, Australian selectors have called on Andrew Tye as his replacement.
"It was a difficult decision for Kane to make but one which has the complete support of the selectors and the entire playing squad," national selector Trevor Hohns said about Richardson’s decision.
Richardson, 29, who has taken 61 wickets in 46 limited-overs game for Australia wanted to remain in Adelaide and was hence allowed by the Australian selectors to opt-out of the tournament as all the players had been removed from Adelaide or the states bordering South Australia to a safe place in New South Wales, due to fresh cases being reported in the city.
"Kane wanted to remain in Adelaide with Nyki and their newborn son. We will always support our players and their families; even more so given the challenging environment, we are in. We will miss what he brings to the team but completely understand and support his decision," added Hohns.
Although not even having a state contract from Western Australia, Tye is still being preferred by the Australian selection committee over the likes of James Pattinson and Nathan Coulter Nile. This showcases how highly rated the 33-year-old, who has 49 wickets in just 33 games for Australia is.
"AJ is incredibly skilled in both forms of the short game. He impressed in the UK with his high work ethic and his positive energy around the squad. He is a great player to be able to call on," said Hohns.
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