Tim David joins ILT20 squad, likely to be called back for national duty

Australia batter Tim David has joined the MI Emirates squad for the upcoming ILT20 (International League T20), commencing on January 19, Friday. However, his stint in the tournament may be cut short if he receives a call for Australia’s T20I series against West Indies next month. Australia’s upcoming three T20Is against the West Indies are scheduled for February 9 to 13 in Hobart, Adelaide, and Perth, respectively, with the squad announcement expected next week.

David seized the opportunity to participate in the UAE tournament, following the conclusion of his Big Bash League (BBL) campaign with the Hobart Hurricanes. He was roped in by the MI Emirates through the wildcard system, allowing teams to sign two additional players beyond the original 22-player limit. Notably, the 27-year-old cricketer represents Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and MI New York in the Major League Cricket (MLC), sharing the same ownership.

Speaking about David’s performance in the BBL, he endured a challenging season, managing only 112 runs at an average of 16.00 and a strike rate of 134.93 in nine games. Despite this, he is anticipated to be picked by the selectors for the upcoming T20 World Cup which will be jointly hosted by the West Indies and the USA in June. In 33 T20Is for Australia, the middle-order batter has accumulated 897 runs at an average of 34.50, boasting a strike rate of 158.20. Additionally, he has contributed with the ball, securing five wickets at an economy rate of 9.32. 

David Warner, who recently announced his retirement from ODI and Test cricket, has joined his ILT20 team Dubai Capitals. However, he will be called back for the T20I series as the chair of selectors George Bailey confirmed his inclusion earlier this month. On the other hand, all-rounder Marcus Stoinis is currently playing for Durban’s Super Giants in the SA20 in South Africa, but he too will make a return to join the Australian squad for the series against Windies. Following the West Indies series, Australia is scheduled to play three more T20Is in New Zealand later in February, marking their final preparations before the eagerly anticipated T20 World Cup.