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RCB's Tim David To Play A New Role For Australia In T20 WC 2026: Here Is What Data Suggests

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Tim David for Australia [Source: AFP Media]Tim David for Australia [Source: AFP Media]

One of the most destructive batters in the current T20 scenario, Tim David has long been pigeonholed as a finisher in the format. While teams, be it Australia or the different franchises, he represents continue to deploy him in the lower middle-order, his numbers reveal a player who thrives when given more deliveries, responsibility and time at the crease.

With the T20 World Cup about six months away, Australia have a golden opportunity to unleash a new beast in Tim David by allowing him more time up the batting order. If planned and executed properly, this move can transform their whole campaign in the marquee tournament. 

Statistical Support In Favour Of David Batting Higher

David's numbers in T20I give the perfect reason for Australia to consider him batting up the order. At number three, David averages an outstanding 52.89 with a strike rate of 164.14 in 11 innings. Even more impressive is his performance at number five, where he has an average of 54.75 while scoring at a rate of 188.79.

On the other hand, if we compare these numbers to the position where he bats the most, we see a stark difference. At number six, he has batted in 27 innings, scoring at an average of 28.63. Although his strike rate at this position increases to 172.70, the decrease in his average proves the decreasing efficiency and consistency of the batter. 

Destructive David vs West Indies

One of the experiments that Australia were trying in the recently concluded T20I series against the West Indies was using Tim David up in the batting line-up. Or so to say, allow him more time in the middle and play more deliveries. 

In the third T20I, David walked out to bat at number five when his team was struggling in a chase of 215 runs. However, the situation did not faze the batter as he went hard at the hosts. He slammed a 102 off 37 deliveries and changed the complexion of the game in a matter of overs. His destructive batting set the foundation for the Aussies to build on, which they chased down the formidable target in just 16.1 overs with six wickets in hand.

World Cup 2026 Strategy For Australia

Like every other team, Australia are also preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. They could look to use David in the upper order and bring about more flexibility, dynamism and depth in their batting order.