George Bailey to lead Australia PM’s XI against South Africa in warm-up game

Bailey, who had led the Aussies earlier, stated that he feels honoured to lead the pack of brewing cricketers who have given a good opportunity to prove their worth against South Africa.

Former Australian skipper George Bailey has been handed over the responsibility to lead the Australia PM’s XI squad against South Africa for the warm-up games scheduled to happen later this month. His appointment was announced by the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison Tuesday.

Bailey, who had led the Aussies earlier, stated that he feels honoured to lead the pack of brewing cricketers who have given a good opportunity to prove their worth against South Africa. He said,

“I’ve been fortunate enough to represent the Prime Minister’s XI on a couple of occasions during my career, and now to captain, the team is a real privilege.”

“Over the years, the match has provided an opportunity for some of Australia’s best-emerging players to test their skills against a quality international side, and I’m sure this year will be no different,” he added.

Bailey’s appointment as the skipper of PM’s XI has now increased the possibilities of his international comeback. The Tasmanian cricketer is one of nine Australians to have scored more than 3,000 career runs and average more than 40.

However, he was axed from the side following a rough patch in 2016. Meanwhile, he continued to churn out runs at domestic level and averaged 68.50 in 50-over cricket for Hampshire and Tasmania last year. In the ongoing JLT cup, Bailey is leading the Tasmanian side and has maintained his red-hot form in the domestic circuit.

On the other hand, South Africa are scheduled to travel to play three ODIs and a solitary T20 International. They are scheduled to play the only warm-up game on October 31.