World Cup: We have amazing flexibility now, says Justin Langer
The Australian cricket team was announced on Monday for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019 to be held in England and Wales from May 30 onwards. Australia named a 15-member squad that looks strong with the return of David Warner and Steve Smith. Coach Justin Langer, who had a tough time in selecting the squad, is counting on the flexibility. Here's more.
Return of Warner adds selection headache in opening role
With David Warner back, the Aussies have a selection headache in terms of the opening role. Current openers Aaron Finch and Usman Khawaja have been solid. Warner's addition means that the side will need to mix things up. The southpaw has been in blistering form in the ongoing 12th edition of the Indian Premier League for Sunrisers Hyderabad. He is the Orange Cap holder.
Langer feels the addition of Warner provides flexibility
Langer has outlined the flexibility factor. "We have amazing flexibility now. Usman and Finchy have done an incredible job opening the batting. David and Finchy have done a great job in the past doing it. I love the flexibility of it. [It's about] boys playing their roles for the team not just playing the roles that suit them, said Langer to Melbourne radio SEN.
We could see all three openers feature
Finch and Khawaja had a strong show against Pakistan in the five-match ODI series in recent times. Warner's run in the IPL means that the Aussies will head into the World Cup with in-form openers. One expects Langer to mix and match the top order. There is a feeling that all three could play together. Khawaja in particular has been dominating ODIs in 2019.
Smith's return sees unlucky Handscomb miss out
Peter Handscomb has given a solid account of himself for Australia, but the middle order batsman missed out from the squad after Steve Smith's inclusion. Also, the decision to opt for five specialist pacers resulted in Handscomb's omission. Smith, who was Australia's best batsman in 2015 World Cup, will be required to continue the good work that was shown by Handscomb.
Langer bats for Steve Smith
"Steve Smith we felt would probably be able to play that role that Pete has done so well for us," Langer said. The senior cricketer is playing his trades for Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing IPL 2019.
