Bailey quits as Australia T20 captain

Batsman cites World Cup preparations, first-class cricket as reasons.

SYDNEY: George Bailey has given up the captaincy of Australia’s T20 team to focus on playing in next year’s World Cup, said Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday.

Bailey, 32, has indicated that he wants to prepare for the one-day World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next February-March and to play more first-class cricket for his state Tasmania, particularly before Christmas.

CA said Bailey has made himself unavailable for selection for Australia’s T20l fixtures on the upcoming tour of the UAE against Pakistan, and unavailable for Australia’s three T20Is at home against South Africa in November.

Bailey was appointed T20 captain in January 2012, taking over from Cameron White, and in that time he competed in two ICC World T20 tournaments. He played for Australia in 28 T20 Internationals, winning 14 and losing 13 with one tied match.

CA said it would make an announcement on Bailey’s replacement as captain shortly.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the responsibility and honour of leading Australia in T20 internationals,” said Bailey in a statement.

“Over the last couple of months I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on my role as T20 captain and the direction I want to take my cricket over the next few years.

“I want to focus on my one-day cricket as well as becoming the best long-form player I can to give myself the very best chance to play Test cricket again.

“There are plenty of candidates who can replace me but I think Aaron Finch would be really good. I think he thrives on it.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 8^th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.