Who is Mahli Beardman? Australia's recruit for England ODI series
Australia have enlisted 19-year-old Western Australian seamer, Mahli Beardman, as a reinforcement for their ODI squad. This decision comes in response to a growing list of injuries among their fast-bowling lineup. The five-match series against England is set to commence at Trent Bridge on Thursday. Despite his young age and limited List A experience, Beardman has already made a name for himself in the cricketing world.
Beardman's impressive performance in Under-19 World Cup
Beardman, who stands at 6ft 2in, made a significant impact in the Under-19 World Cup earlier this year. He was particularly noted for his Player-of-the-Match winning figures of 3/15 in Australia's victory over India in the final. Throughout six matches during the tournament, he claimed 10 wickets at an impressive economy rate of just 2.77. He has picked up one wicket in his solitary List A apperance.
Beardman's career and Australia's injury woes
Beardman was signed by Perth Scorchers for this year's Big Bash League in August, after playing just one List A match. Notably, he is yet to play a T20 or First-Class game at the senior level. He is part of a group of promising young fast bowlers that Australian selectors are closely monitoring. His call-up comes amid a series of injuries among Australia's fast bowlers, including Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, and Riley Meredith.
Australia's head coach comments on team's fitness
Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, recently discussed the team's fitness concerns with SEN. He emphasized that close attention would be paid to the condition of his "big three" bowlers - Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc. This is particularly crucial as they prepare for a five-Test home series against India later this year.
Beardman's involvement in Cricket Australia's Under-19 program
Beardman and Cooper Connolly, another member of the T20I squad, have been involved in Cricket Australia's Under-19 induction program. They have spent the past two summers on the Australian bench in Perth. Connolly will stay with the ODI squad in the UK, along with Ben Dwarshuis who has also been added as cover for the remainder of the tour.
