Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood Return for NSW in One Day Cup Clash Against Victoria

Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, two of Australia's premier fast bowlers, have been included in New South Wales’ (NSW) 13-player squad for their One-Day Cup match against Victoria at the CitiPower Centre in Melbourne. The highly anticipated clash, scheduled for tomorrow, will see both Cummins and Hazlewood bolstering the Blues' lineup as they continue their campaign in Australia's domestic 50-over competition.

The return of Cummins and Hazlewood is a significant boost for NSW, which has already tasted success in the tournament. NSW won their season opener against reigning champions Western Australia and faced a washout in their second match against South Australia. Their presence alongside Steve Smith, another Australian team regular, sets up an intriguing battle with Victoria, who will be keen to notch up a win on their home turf.

The squad will be captained by Moises Henriques, who takes over leadership duties from Jack Edwards. Edwards, a promising young all-rounder, has been sidelined due to a hamstring strain, with his absence being a blow to the team's depth. Henriques’ experience will be crucial, especially with some key players missing.

Mitchell Starc and Sean Abbott were not considered for this fixture, as both are preparing for upcoming international duties with the Australian side. In addition, Daniel Hughes, a vital cog in the NSW lineup, is out for 8-10 weeks following an elbow injury sustained during Premier Cricket.

Youngsters Lachlan Shaw, a wicketkeeper/batter, and Sam Konstas, a teenage batting prospect, are also part of the squad and could potentially make their debut. Shaw has shown promise with both the gloves and the bat, while Konstas is being touted as one of NSW’s rising stars. Both players will look to make an impact if given the chance in a match that could shape NSW's standing in the tournament.

Victoria will face a formidable challenge with Cummins and Hazlewood leading the NSW bowling attack. Known for their lethal pace and precision, the duo will undoubtedly be key in restricting the Victorian batting lineup. Meanwhile, Smith, who remains one of the best batsmen in the world, will anchor the Blues' batting, offering stability and a wealth of experience.

The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Australia’s most storied domestic teams, with NSW aiming to continue their unbeaten start and Victoria seeking to make a statement on their home soil.
 

NSW Squad for One-Day Cup Match vs Victoria:

1. Pat Cummins
2. Ollie Davies
3. Matthew Gilkes
4. Chris Green
5. Liam Hatcher
6. Josh Hazlewood
7. Moises Henriques (C)
8. Sam Konstas
9. Nic Maddinson
10. Josh Philippe
11. Tanveer Sangha
12. Lachlan Shaw
13. Steve Smith

Schedule:

• Match: NSW Blues vs Victoria
• Date: Friday, 25 October
• Time: 10:05am (Melbourne Time)
• Venue: CitiPower Centre, Melbourne