Australian players could miss part of The Hundred for Zimbabwe ODIs

Cricket Australia has told players that any who are selected for the three one day internationals against Zimbabwe will have to report for camp on 4 August 2020.

Aaron Finch of Australia celebrates a milestone in his record-breaking innings at Harare Sports Club PIC: Zimbabwe Cricket

This means some of the 10 players picked by sides in England’s inaugural The Hundred tournament will have to leave it early.

David Warner (Southern Brave), Aaron Finch (Northern Superchargers), Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc (both West Fire) are among those most likely to be affected. That said, they may be allowed to miss the series as it may be seen as low key

A spokesperson for the England and Wales Cricket Board said: “We have been in continued dialogue with Cricket Australia over the past weeks as they finalise their schedule with Zimbabwe.

“The Australian players selected in the squad for that series will be asked by Cricket Australia to report back by 4 August. As a result they will be available for the first five or six matches of the Hundred.

“Teams will have the ability to replace players who are unavailable in due course. We will be excited to welcome additional international stars to the Hundred alongside the world‑class cricketers who will be available to play throughout the first season.”

Zimbabwe will tour Australia for the first time in over 15 years this August.