RCB power-hitter Tim David to make comeback for Australia in 2027 ODI World Cup?

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

David, who is currently representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing IPL season, has established himself as one of Australia’s most impactful T20 finishers. However, his ODI involvement has been limited in recent years due to his preference for franchise cricket commitments around the world, which has also meant he has not been centrally contracted in the same way as several of his international teammates.

With Australia set to feature in ODI series against Zimbabwe, South Africa and England later this year, discussions around squad balance and long-term planning have intensified. The absence of experienced all-rounders like Maxwell and Stoinis has further sharpened focus on who could fill the finishing roles in the 50-over format leading into the next World Cup cycle.

McDonald confirmed that while conversations are ongoing, David has not yet formally indicated full availability for ODI cricket. He also stressed that any return would require both player commitment and structured exposure to the 50-over format before being integrated into the national setup.

“It is something we’re looking at,” McDonald said as quoted by Cricket Australia. “Tim hasn’t made himself available for ODI cricket as yet in amongst everything that he’s doing. But open-minded that potentially that is a conversation down the track.”

TIM DAVID AVAILABILITY A HURDLE?

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

“You probably want some continuity around how it looks for him in 50-over cricket, so you want some connection within the team at some point. I don’t know when that time is 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 preparation for the previous ODI World Cup. At that time, he was identified as a potential candidate for a lower-order finishing role, though he has since concentrated almost entirely on T20 cricket and franchise leagues across the globe.

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

While David will continue to ply his trade for RCB in the IPL, who are set to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 of play-offs on May 26..

IPL 2026 | IPL Schedule | IPL Points Table | IPL Player Stats | Purple Cap | Orange Cap | IPL Videos | Cricket News | Live Score