Thursday, April 20th, 2017

Hastings Delighted At Aussie Call-Up For Icc Trophy

Hastings Delighted At Aussie Call-Up For Icc Trophy

Worcestershire CCC 2017 overseas player John Hastings has been included in the Australian squad for the ICC Trophy which is being staged in England this summer.

The tournament is being held between June 1 and June 18.

During that period Worcestershire will play two Specsavers County Championship matches – away to Sussex (June 2-5) and home to Glamorgan (June 9-12).

The quarter-finals of the Royal London One-Day Cup are also being held in the June 13-17 slot.

Hastings last played ODI cricket for his country against South Africa last year and is one of five pace bowlers in the squad.

He made a successful start to his Worcestershire career with five wickets and a half century against Glamorgan after making a successful return from his winter patella tendon injury.

Hastings said: "I'm delighted to be called up. I've always said I'd love to play for Australia again and never thought I was 'done' at international level especially in the white ball format.

"Test cricket has probably passed me by although you never know. I've been to one World Cup and to be be part of the Champions Trophy will great.

"I'll miss a couple of games with Worcestershire but there is a lot of cricket to be played before then and hopefully I can help us to be in a good position."

Director Of Cricket Steve Rhodes said: "I'm delighted for John. He has had a long haul back from his injury and it's great he's got another opportunity at international level.

"We will miss him for a couple of games but we will deal with it and we are always pleased when someone gets picked for their country."

Rhodes said the County would "look into" the possibility of bringing in a short term replacement.

Bowling coach Matt Mason said: "John has been superb since he has been here and he has worked so hard to get back fit for the start of the season.

"He has had a massive impact already not only on the pitch but also with passing on knowledge to the lads.

"I've had a few conversations with him already and he is open to wanting to improve even at this stage of his career."

Australia will meet England, Bangladesh and New Zealand in their group at the eight-team tournament.

The Australian squad is: Steve Smith (capt), David Warner (vice-capt), Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, John Hastings, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, James Pattinson, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.