RCB opener Tim David to return to Australia for ODI World Cup 2027?

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has opened the door to a potential return to ODIs for Tim David, with selectors eyeing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru power-hitter as a possible option for the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle following the departures of Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. The discussion comes as Australia reevaluates its 50-over middle order and finishing depth amid a transition phase in white-ball cricket.

David, who currently represents Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing IPL season, has established himself as one of Australia’s most impressive T20 finishers. However, his involvement in ODIs has been limited in recent years due to his prioritization of franchise cricket commitments around the world, which has also meant that he has not been locked in centrally in the same way as several of his international teammates.

With Australia set to play ODI series against Zimbabwe, South Africa and England later this year, discussions about squad balance and long-term planning have intensified. Absence an experienced all-rounder like Maxwell and Stoinis sharpened further on who could fill the finishing roles in the 50-over format leading into the next World Cup cycle.

McDonald confirmed that while talks are ongoing, David has yet to formally indicate full availability for ODI cricket. He also stressed that any return would require player commitment and structured exposure to the 50-over format before being integrated into the national set-up.

“It’s something we’re looking at,” McDonald was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia. “Tim hasn’t made himself available for ODI cricket yet between everything he’s doing. But with an open mind that it’s potentially a conversation.”

TIM DAVID AVAILABILITY OBSTACLE?

He further emphasized the importance of clarity and continuity of roles within the ODI side and indicated that any inclusion would depend on David spending meaningful time in the format to understand the team structure and expectations.

“You probably want some continuity around what it looks like for him in over-50 cricket, so at some point you want some connection in the squad. I don’t know when that time is when you never say never,” he added.

David last featured in Australia’s ODI setup in 2023 during the series against South Africa which served as a warm-up for the previous ODI World Cup. at that time has been identified as a potential candidate for a lower-order finisher role, although since then he has focused almost exclusively on T20 cricket and franchise leagues around the world.

While David’s explosive bat and ability to accelerate in the final overs make him an attractive option, the key hurdle remains his availability for the bilateral ODI series. For now, McDonald’s comments suggest Australia are keeping their options open but will not rush into a decision without clear communication from the player and adequate time to prepare in the 50-over format.

While David will continue to ply his trade for RCB in the IPL who will take on Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 of the playoffs on May 26.

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Published on:

May 25, 2026 6:04 PM IST

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