Australia have unveiled a 17-player squad for their upcoming tour of Pakistan for a three-match T20I series, which will serve as a key stepping stone toward the T20 World Cup starting on February 7. The three-match series will offer selectors a final opportunity to assess combinations while also carefully managing the workloads of several senior players.

The trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David will miss the series in order to manage their fitness ahead of the World Cup. The standout Big Bash League performances have opened the door for fresh talent. Perth Scorchers fast bowler Mahli Beardman has earned a call-up after impressing throughout the BBL season. Sydney Sixers all-rounder Jack Edwards has also been rewarded for his magnificent performance. Both players are yet to make their international debuts, but they were part of Australia’s white-ball squads during India’s tour earlier in the summer.

"The series is a great opportunity for those on the brink of selection and some young players we rate highly for valuable experience with the World Cup group in Pakistan," chair of selectors George Bailey said.

"Some are already experienced international players along with Mahli Beardman who has been with the group a number of times and Jack Edwards who joined for the last one-day match against India in Sydney last year."

Mitchell Marsh will lead the squad that features the likes of Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, and Matthew Kuhnemann. All three T20Is will be held in Lahore on January 29, 31 and February 1.

Australia T20I squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Owen, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Matt Short, Marcus Stonis, Adam Zampa