Melbourne: Australia have dropped their in-form player Usman Khawaja from the ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand.
Earlier, the 29-year-old, who led Sydney Thunders to Big Bash League (BBL) glory, was told that he was still not good enough to play in one-day cricket, News.com.au reported.
Besides Khawaja, Australian selectors have also excluded spinner Nathan Lyon from the squad and called up impressive rookie Adam Zampa in his place.
Reflecting on Zampa’s inclusion, national selector Rod Marsh said that the former displayed some really good performances in the recently-concluded BBL and, therefore, has thoroughly earned this opportunity.
Meanwhile, Twenty20 skipper Aaron Finch and veteran batsman George Bailey have also retained their place in the squad for the forthcoming series.
Australia will play three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting from February 3.
Australian ODI squad: Steve Smith (captain), David Warner, George Bailey, Scott Boland, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, John Hastings, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.(ANI)