Australia call up Dunk, Reardon

The uncapped Ben Dunk and Nathan Reardon have been named in Australia’s squad for next month’s Twenty20 International series against South Africa.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Dunk recently struck a remarkable 229 not out for Tasmania in a domestic limited-overs fixture at the North Sydney Oval, while the left-handed Reardon has secured a fine stretch of form in Queensland’s middle order this season.

Batsman Aaron Finch will continue to captain the team after the veteran George Bailey’s resignation from the position earlier this year.

The inexperienced Nic Maddinson has been recalled, seamer Sean Abbott retained and the hard-hitting Cameron White recalled.

“While the 2016 World Twenty20 seems a long time away, the nature of short T20 series at international level means every match between now and then is a great opportunity for players to show what they’re capable of against high quality opposition,” said national selector Rod Marsh.

“This series of three matches provides new captain Finch the opportunity to really work with the T20I squad after commencing his tenure as captain with a win against Pakistan in the one-off T20I a couple of weeks ago.

Opener David Warner, fast bowler Mitchell Johnson and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell were declared unavailable due to the three T20Is’ close proximity to Australia’s ongoing series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

“The squad itself includes a good blend of youth and experience, providing Aaron with multiple options with both bat and ball. We may also look to add a player to this squad following the naming of the second Test team in the UAE,” added Marsh.

New South Welshman Trevor Bayliss will coach the side in the absence of the successful Darren Lehmann, who has been afforded a rest ahead of next year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Sean Abbott, Doug Bollinger, Cameron Boyce, Patrick Cummins, Ben Cutting, Ben Dunk, James Faulkner, Nic Maddinson, Nathan Reardon, Kane Richardson, Shane Watson, Cameron White.

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