Aussies call in teen as back-up quick for ODI series

Scott BaileyAAP
Camera IconTeenage bowler Mahli Beardman has been added to the Australian squad for the ODI series in England. (AP PHOTO) Credit: AAP

Australia's depleted fast-bowling stocks have prompted them to put under-19s World Cup winner Mahli Beardman on standby for their ODIs against England.

Beardman, who was player of the final in Australia's under-19s win last year, has been asked to tour with Australia in England for the next fortnight.

The right-arm quick has played only one match for Western Australia, and took 3-15 against India in last year's 50-over World Cup final in South Africa.

Officials have confirmed the main objective of taking Beardman on the tour is to give him experience within the Australian set-up.

But the 19-year-old is now an outside chance of earning a debut in England, across the five ODIs.

Beardman's call-up comes after injuries to Xavier Bartlett, Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith.

Pat Cummins has also been rested from the tour, with Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis the out-and-out quicks on tour.

Australia also confirmed on Monday that 21-year-old Cooper Connolly would also remain on the England tour for the ODIs, with the first match on Thursday at Trent Bridge.

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