Matt Short, an all-rounder for Australia, has stated that he would be most successful playing in the middle and lower order at the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year, even if he prefers to open the batting.
During Australia’s disappointing 2024 World Cup performance, the 29-year-old was a reserve player who was not included in the 15-man roster and did not play when touring the West Indies.
Short has a lot riding on the current T20 series against India, which ends in Queensland with games at the Gabba and on the Gold Coast.
He has played as an opener in his best Australian innings, including a spectacular 66 off 30 deliveries against South Africa in 2023. However, the team’s brain trust has provided Short, who started the first two games of the current series at number seven, with a clear image of his route to inclusion in the T20 World Cup.
“Personally I think I am suited to the top of the order, but having conversations with selectors and coaching staff, I think, looking forward to that T20 World Cup, I know that our top four or five is going to be pretty locked in,” Short stated.
“I believe my best chances of making the World Cup starting lineup are in the middle or lower order. In anticipation of the World Cup, we are most likely using this series to observe players in various roles.
“It would be incredible to play in the World Cup. I loved playing cricket for Australia, whether it was in the World Cup or a series like this, but I missed the one in the West Indies where I was a travelling reserve. Whether it is through the middle or the top order, I am content to accept what I am given.
When the Adelaide Strikers captain won player of the tournament in both the BBL 12 and BBL 13, his skillful offspin and strong batting stole the show, confirming his status as a cricketer of the highest caliber.
Short’s high degree of consistency served as a springboard for his selection in the Australian T20 and ODI teams, where he made his debut in 2023.
Short has made it his mission to step it up while facing spinners, even though he still appreciates the ball coming onto the bat.
His words, “There’s always ways to improve,” “My game against spin undoubtedly needs some development, especially in light of the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Particularly when you consider our team and the middle-field power hitters we have, such as Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, and Marcus Stoinis—guys who have previously played in India and have a true power game against spin.
“It is obviously a challenge, and playing for Australia is not easy, so we will have to wait and see.”
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