Philippe and McDermott Poised for T20I Showdown Against India as Australia Shuffles Squad

Josh Philippe and Ben McDermott are emerging as contenders for the first T20I in Australia's series against India, starting Wednesday at Canberra's Manuka Oval. Both players are poised for potential international returns, with McDermott back from the Caribbean Premier League after Matthew Short's injury alters the squad dynamics.

McDermott, initially a standby, joined late after a stint in the Caribbean Premier League interrupted his domestic commitments. His recent performances, scoring 42 and 14 in Tasmania's One-Day Cup, come as Matthew Short exits because of finger surgery following an injury sustained during an ODI against India.

Amidst these changes, Josh Philippe is set for his first T20I since December 2023. Australia will also see captain Mitchell Marsh positioning Josh Inglis at number three, as players like Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott adjust their commitments. Injuries continue to impact the lineup, with Glenn Maxwell and others managing fitness issues while bouncing in and out of the squad.