Instead of naming a 14-man squad, Australia chose to leave one player out. Lance Morris, an uncapped speedster, withdrew out of the squad to return to domestic responsibilities.
After taking a one-match lead in the three-match series, Australia picked a 13-player squad for the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan in Melbourne. The World Test Championship holders have decided to resist the temptation to play games with their side, which won by 360 runs in Perth on Sunday. Instead of naming a 14-man roster, Australia chose to leave one player out. Lance Morris, an uncapped speedster, withdrew out of the squad to return to domestic responsibilities.
In his absence, the seasoned pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and skipper Pat Cummins are likely to lead the assault, with Scott Boland’s participation adding another option if Australia choose to change their playing XI.
Cameroon Green, a young all-rounder, is another player in contention to make the starting XI, but skipper Pat Cummins believes it is difficult to force any changes in the group.
“I don’t think injuries will be an issue, so I dare to say it will be a fairly similar line-up at this point.” I believe all of the bowlers are in good shape following (the win in Perth). “It’s basically the ideal way to start the summer,” Cummins remarked of the XI who will play in the Boxing Day Test (December 26), according to the ICC.
Australia’s only injury concern following the first Test was top batter Marnus Labuschagne. Pakistan debutant Khurram Shahzad whacked the right-handed batter on the finger of his right hand with a rearing ball that leaped off a length on Day 3 of the first Test. Labuschagne immediately sought medical attention but returned to batting after a few minutes.
However, he is anticipated to be healthy for the second Test match on December 26.
In terms of the World Test Championship table after the first test, Australia is presently seventh with a 41.67 win-loss %, while Pakistan and India are tied at the top with a 66.67 percentage.
Australia squad:Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Mitch Starc, David Warner.
