Feathered clouds at Manuka Oval. Photo: Charlotte Harper.
Canberra local Nathan Lyon will lead a strong side featuring several international players with a mixture of youth in the Prime Minister’s XI clash with England on Friday (2 February).
Lyon was unveiled as captain last week, and Cricket Australia on Tuesday announced a side with eight players with international experience to join him for the Twenty20 fixture at Manuka Oval.
Former Australia ODI allrounders James Faulkner and Moises Henriques, ex-Test wicketkeeper Peter Nevill and batsman Peter Handscomb have all been included.
Cricket Australia’s national talent manager Greg Chappell said he was confident that the team selected would be a challenge for England.
“It’s pleasing to put together a really strong side to represent the Prime Minister’s XI, this is one of the most experienced teams we’ve assembled for this clash in a number of years,” Mr Chappell said.
“Nathan Lyon gives this team plenty of leadership, with the support of Brad Haddin as coach. It’s pleasing to have a number of other players in this squad with international experience.”
“It’s also a great opportunity for a number of players in strong form in the Big Bash League, including Nic Maddinson and Sean Abbott as well as emerging talents such as Mitchell Swepson and Brendan Doggett.”
Nic Maddinson endured a frustrating start in BBL|07 for the Sydney Sixers, posting five scores between 24 and 31 from his first seven innings though in his 2 of his last 3 matches he scored quickfire 62 and 61.
Brisbane Heat spinner Mitchell Swepson is one to watch against England on Friday night after the 24-year-old caught the eye of Shane Warne during the past two BBL tournaments.
The king of spin has called for Swepson’s elevation to the Test arena and Swepson was selected for the tours of India and Bangladesh but did not earn a baggy green for any of the six matches.
“We’re confident this team can give England a real test ahead of the T20 Tri-Series,” Mr Chappell said.
PMs XI squad: Nathan Lyon (c), Sean Abbott, Brendan Doggett, James Faulkner, Seb Gotch, Peter Handscomb, Moises Henriques, Daniel Hughes, Nic Maddinson, Peter Nevill, Mitchell Swepson. 12th: Blake MacDonald (ACT).
PM’s XI v England Manuka Oval, February 2. Tickets can be purchased here.
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