Shane Watson will captain Australia in their final T20 match against India in Sydney on Sunday.
Aaron Finch, the usual T20 skipper for Australia, injured his hamstring in the 2nd match at the MCG on Friday, leaving the selectors with no option but to name a stand-in captain.
With Steve Smith and David Warner flying out to New Zealand to prepare for the series against their neighbours and George Bailey also about to do the same, Watson was the only really remaining choice. Usman Khawaja will take Finch's place in the squad, and is in line for a place at the top of the order after his stunning performances with the willow in the Big Bash League.
It is quite a turnaround for the all-rounder, whose career looked like it was over after being dropped from the Australia squad for the ODI series against India. However, after a strong showing in the Big Bash League for the Sydney Thunder, Watson found a place in the T20 squad, and now the burly all-rounder will lead his side out against India at the SCG.
"It is an honour to be asked to lead the side on Sunday, although the circumstances are far from ideal," Watson told Cricket Australia's website.
Australia, who beat India 4-1 in the ODIs, have already lost the T20 series 2-0, but Watson is determined to leave his mark in the final match of the tour.
"We may have lost the series but there is a great deal to play for with the ICC World Twenty20 coming up and you can be sure we will be determined to do well in Sydney," Watson added.
