First in six decades: India born Nikhil added to Oz’s T20 squad

Spin bowling all-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary, who holds Permanent Residency here, on Thursday became the first Indian-born male player in over six decades to feature in Australia’s cricket squad when he was named in the T20 side for the upcoming away series against Bangladesh.

The three-match series will be held in Chattogram from June 17 to 21. Chaudhary has been playing for JB Bruges in the EUT20 competition in Belgium and was with the Delhi Capitals in the recent IPL. He will join Australia’s white-ball outfits in Dhaka on Friday.  “The panel has been impressed by his BBL form, particularly last season, leading to his addition to the squad,” selector Tony Dodemaide was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

“Nikhil will gain invaluable experience in Bangladesh and will be in contention to play his first game for Australia when we sit down to pick a team for the opening T20 fixture here next week,” he added.