Runs have dried up but captain Finch remaining positive

AARON Finch’s positive attitude as Australia’s oneday captain has been praised as he faces a fight for his place in the World Cup squad.

Finch averaged 8.6 runs at 48.1 in the three-match series against India and has one half-century from 23 innings across all formats this summer.

He returns to captain the Melbourne Renegades in tonight’s Big Bash League derby against the Stars with his place in the ODI team a talking point.

With Steve Smith and David Warner banned from holding leadership positions at this year’s World Cup, it is difficult to nominate a captain should Finch fall out of favour.

Alex Carey, 27, was named vice-captain for the series against India, but played just his ninth ODI yesterday.

Renegades understudy Tom Cooper said Finch’s match awareness skills should not be discounted.

“He’s just so positive,” Cooper said. “His message is always simple. It’s take the positive option — if you start doubting yourself, those negative thoughts can only lead to one thing.

“Yes, we have plans, but he also goes a lot on gut feel, which you get judged on. Fortunately, that gut feeling for him pays off quite a bit.

“That’s how I started opening the bowling. He keeps it very simple and he’s a positive leader, which rubs off on any team he captains.”

Finch will bat with Marcus Harris tonight for the first time this BBL season after Cricket Australia allowed Marcus Harris to fly to Brisbane tomorrow to join the Test squad.