AUS vs PAK: Australia have announced their squad for the first Test match against Pakistan, starting 14th December 2023. Pat Cummins, who has just led Australia to the 2023 World Cup victory, is all set to lead the Test team at Perth.
His compatriot, Mitchell Starc could be unavailable due to unspecified niggle but the likes of Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland are rearing to roll their arms over. Australia could also give the chance to Lance Morris, who has been with the team since last summer.
Morris To Replace Starc, Carey to Keep Wicket-keeping Gloves
Morris boasts of an exceptional record in first-class cricket. In 22 Tests, he has managed to pick 74 wickets at an average of 24.44. It will be interesting to see what the fast-bowling attack looks like at Perth. Nathan Lyon has made his comeback after recovering from his injury.
Alex Carey will don the wicket-keeping gloves, while Green and Marsh have been chosen as the all-rounders. Marsh scored a ton on his comeback in the third Ashes Test and might get the nod ahead of Green in the first Test. If that happens, then this could be his make-or-break series in the longest format.
Australia’s men’s selection panel chief, George Bailey has asserted that opportunities are open for the players to make it into the squad depending on their performance.
“As ever, there will be opportunities in the short to medium term to break into this squad and we look forward to seeing the continued strong performances from players who have been performing domestically, many of whom will get a tremendous opportunity in the PM’s XI fixture against Pakistan later this week,” Bailey said.
hasn’t had great returns in the longest format for the last couple of years, will be one to have an eye on. He has requested the Australian Cricket to let him participate till the Sydney Test, post which he is likely to retire from Test cricket. The southpaw, however, will continue to play white-ball cricket.
He will be accompanied by Usman Khawaja at the top, who showed plenty of intent in the Ashes. The formidable trio of Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head will solidify the middle-order.
The first Test match between Australia and Pakistan is scheduled to be played between 14th to 18th December 2023 at Perth Stadium.
Australia Squad for AUS vs PAK 1st Test:
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Lance Morris, Steve Smith, Mitch Starc, David Warner.
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