Bairstow or Finch, Rashid or Zampa... ENGLAND-AUSTRALIA T20 COMBINED XI

Ahead of the three-match T20 series between the two rivals, The Cricketer considered which players would get into a joint team...

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David Warner

If indeed this is the beginning of the end of Warner in this format, then it is time to start to enjoy what we have. The left-hander ha indicated that this back-to-back World Cup cycle, which ends with the showcase tournament on home soil now in 2022, could be his last involvement in the T20 side.

What we are potentially losing is one half of the best international opening partnership around. He was truly spectacular during the 2019-20 summer, averaging an eye-watering 138.33 in nine outings - and that is without mentioning the rest of his season.

Aaron Finch

Somehow the lesser light of Australia's top two and yet in Finch there is a batsman and leader any team in the world would want among their ranks. Doesn't get the same kind of attention as Tim Paine during the remodeling of this year's reputation, but he is a credible leader and dependable performer.

With enjoy a return to England having enjoyed a good 2019 World Cup and where his Blast record is good. Has another year to shape this team ahead of a tournament on home soil, which will surely be his defining moment.

Steve Smith

While Smith does not have the imperious record in the shortest format to rival his Test or ODI returns, Australia still find him impossible to leave behind. Didn't enjoy the best summer but still help his side to nine straight wins and Sydney Sixers to the Big Bash title.

Scores in the 130s at this level but every time he is challenged to either up the rate or play the anchor role he applies himself to the situation. A rock-solid choice in this XI.

Mark Wood hoping to channel Mitchell Johnson and lay down pre-Ashes marker in white-ball matches

Eoin Morgan

Credited with turning the momentum of England's entire white-ball ethos around, empowering players to perform to their ability and without fear. If it can deliver a second white-ball World Cup during either of the next two years, he'll go down in history. While his leadership had flourished, Morgan's batting has followed suit.

Scores in the mid-40s and at a strike-rate in the 170s since the start of 2019, making him one of the most prized wickets in T20Is. And given what else he brings to the table, he a prized asset the world over.

Jos Buttler

The first man on the England teamsheet in either white-ball format and given his contributions down the years you can understand why. Struck the fastest fifty by any Englishman in 2018, but in truth, it would be wrong to single that out as his single epitaph.

His record across the format is enviable, including for his IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. Questions remain over where he should bat for England, particularly given the lack of a lower-order pinch-hitter, but he is a threat just whenever he comes to the crease.

Glenn Maxwell

Refreshed after a spell out of the sport, since Maxwell has returned he has been a revelation. Was sensational during the Big Bash, scoring 398 runs at a touch under 40. In his four T20I outings in 2019 he scored at a strike-rate of 183 and included a breath-taking century, scoring 113 in just 55 deliveries.

Could take this series away from England in a matter of moments if he discovers his best form in conditions he knows well. Offers a bowling option too and is a shrewd leader too. There is not much he can't do.

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Jos Buttler returns to the England white-ball squad after missing the Ireland and Pakistan series

Chris Jordan

The king of multi-faceted cricketer you need at T20 level. If the Sussex man doesn't get you with the bat, or the ball, he'll make a contribution in the field. His numbers look modest, but he is a canny operator at the death. Jordan can both bowl with variation and pace, clear the boundary with the bat, and pull-off mind-blowing catches when required. Keeping out of the game is a tough ask.

Adam Zampa

That Zampa has been able to bounce back from his World Cup disappointment and become a key part of this Australia white-ball team says plenty about his character and desire to succeed.

He was rather nullified in England last year but has stormed back to emerge as a key operator in this team. His partnership with Ashton Agar in this T20 side and is key to rebuilding the momentum Australia created before the pandemic. And, let's face it, he likes a good coffee.

Jofra Archer

Might not have played an international white-ball match for nearly 14 months but there is no doubt Archer is among the most revered quicks in world cricket. With that ability has come plenty of expectation and attention on everything from his speeds to his attitude.

What is not under question is his talent, which needs nurturing and shepherding rather than constant critical assessment. Showed during the World Cup and the Ashes last summer that he has the temperament for the big occasion - which in fairness he's displayed on regular occasions during the IPL. It'll be fascinating to see how he approaches these exchanges.

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David Warner enjoyed a fine 50-over World Cup last summer

Mitchell Starc

How sportspeople used the lockdown will soon become clear in the public arena, and if Starc can recapture his best form during this white-ball form he will surely pay tribute his work in the gym during the enforced break.

The left-armer put on 5kg of muscle to protect his body from the demands of international cricket and will hopefully ensure future injuries are few and far between. At his most fresh he can reach 100mph, which makes him devilishly difficult to play in the death overs when the tail look to make quick runs. Probably the most feared bowler in the world during that period of the game.

Pat Cummins

With six matches in less than two weeks, it remains to be seen how often we see the Starc-Cummins-Kane Richardson axis this month, but it'll be worth the wait if we do. With a busy summer potentially ahead with India on the horizon, they'll be plenty of focus on how the trio are managed.

Cummins wasn't at his best in the World Cup in England last summer but in this format, he is the best around. Has a career economy rate just above seven and during the IPL draft became the most expensive overseas player ever - a sign that his reputation stretches way beyond Australia.

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