India-born spinner Nikhil Chaudhary called up for Australia T20I squad

• Delhi-born Nikhil Chaudhary added to Australia’s T20I squad
• Replacement for Travis Head ahead of Bangladesh series
• Could become first India-born Australia player in 60+ years
• Currently plays domestic T20 cricket in Belgium
• Series will be played in Chattogram from June 17 to June 21

Australia have included Delhi-born uncapped spinner Nikhil Chaudhary in their squad for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. The selection came after Travis Head withdrew from the tour on personal leave.

The 30-year-old all-rounder now joins the Australian team ahead of the three-match series in Bangladesh. If he plays, he could become the first India-born cricketer to represent Australia in more than 60 years.

Chaudhary is currently playing for JB Bruges in the EUT20 competition in Belgium. He also had a stint with the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League. He will link up with the Australian squad in Dhaka on Friday.

The selection marks a major step in his career. He was earlier part of the Hobart Hurricanes setup in Australia’s domestic system. Selectors see him as a bowling all-rounder who can add depth to the middle order.

Australia selector Tony Dodemaide said,
“Nikhil has been a player of national interest for some time. He was a standby player for this tour, joining the squad at pre-season camps in Brisbane and comes in as a replacement for Travis Head," Dodemaide said.

He also added,
“The panel has been impressed by his BBL form, particularly last season, leading to his addition to the squad. He has also been part of the Delhi Capitals setup in this year's IPL.

“Nikhil will gain invaluable experience in Bangladesh and will be in contention to play his first game for Australia when we sit down to pick a team for the opening T20 fixture here next week,” he added.

Chaudhary’s journey to Australian cricket is unusual. Born in Delhi, he played 14 limited-overs matches for Punjab in India. He shared the dressing room with players like Harbhajan Singh, Shubman Gill, and Abhishek Sharma. He also trained with Mumbai Indians during IPL trials.

He later moved to Australia after visiting family in Queensland during the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions kept him in the country, and he decided to continue building his cricket career there.

He has since worked through Australia’s domestic system and T20 leagues. His performances in the Big Bash League helped bring him into national selection discussions.

The Australian squad for the Bangladesh series includes Mitchell Marsh as captain along with players like Travis Head, Tim David, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, and Adam Zampa.

The three-match T20I series will be played in Chattogram. The first match is on June 17. The second is on June 19. The final match will be on June 21.