Jake Fraser-McGurk Added to Australia’s T20 World Cup 2024 Squad After IPL Heroics

Explosive batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk has been added to Australia’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad as one of two reserve players following his dominant performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Fraser-McGurk showcased his batting prowess by amassing 330 runs in nine appearances for the Delhi Capitals, which ignited a media campaign advocating for his inclusion in the national squad for next month’s marquee event in the United States and the Caribbean.

Initially, selectors resisted the clamor and named a 15-man squad without Fraser-McGurk three weeks ago. However, on Tuesday, they announced that the 22-year-old from Melbourne would join the squad as a reserve, along with all-rounder Matt Short.

“Matt and Jake showed strong performances for Australia last summer, and Jake also did very well recently in the IPL,” said selectors’ boss George Bailey.

“As the tournament goes on, it’s hard to bring in new players quickly if there’s an injury. Matt offers a versatile skillset for the team, while Jake adds extra batting strength.”

The 15-man squad, captained by all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, remains unchanged. Australia, which secured both the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup titles last year, will now aim for its second T20 World Cup title. If successful, Australia will become the first nation to hold all three of cricket’s global trophies simultaneously.