Bailey steps down to concentrate on World Cup

Bailey led the Baggy Greens in 28 T20 internationals after succeeding Cameron White as captain at the start of 2012, and has quit to concentrate on next year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and also attempt to earn a Test recall.

The 32-year-old has not given up playing T20 cricket for his country but will not be available for the one-off encounter against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates in October, or the three games against South Africa in November

Bailey will continue to lead the Hobart Hurricanes in the KFC T20 Big Bash League and Indian Premier League team Kings XI Punjab, as well as play first-class cricket for Tasmania.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the responsibility and honour of leading Australia in T20 internationals,” he said.

“Over the last couple of months I have had the opportunity to reflect on my role as T20 captain and the direction I want to take my cricket over the next few years.

“Personally, I want to focus on my one-day cricket as well as becoming the best long-form player I can to give myself the very best chance to play Test cricket again.

“I have had numerous discussions with Cricket Australia and they have been very supportive of my decision.”

Faf du Plessis impressed with the bat during two strong partnerships as South Africa claimed a six-wicket victory over Australia in the Zimbabwe Triangular Series final in Harare.

Du Plessis finished the match just four runs from completing his century after sharing a second-wicket stand of 98 with Hashim Amla and a fourth-wicket partnership of 91 with AB de Villiers – who both recorded half centuries – as South Africa comfortably reached their target with 55 balls remaining.

Earlier on Yorkshire’s T20 specialist batsman Aaron Finch claimed a half-century in Australia’s innings total of 217-9 in which Dale Steyn claimed bowling figures of 4-34 after South Africa captain De Villiers had won the toss and elected to field in this 50 overs match.