Australia have announced their playing squad for the upcoming season Day-Night Test against India at Adelaide Ovalwith a marked change in the bowling line-up. Scott Boland has been brought in to replace the injured Josh Hazlewoodwho was a key performer in the first test but was sidelined with a side strain.
Scott Boland returns after 18 months
Boland’s inclusion marks his return to Test cricket after an 18-month hiatus, with his last appearance coming during the Ashes series. Boland’s experience will be crucial as Australia look to bounce back from their heavy 295-run defeat in Perth, where Hazlewood took four wickets on Day 1 but could not prevent a second-innings collapse.
Australia captain Pat Cummins expressed his excitement about Boland’s return, stating: “It’s pretty awesome for someone like Scotty to come right in.” This change comes as Australia aim to level the series after India took a 1-0 lead with their impressive performance in the first Test of the five-match series.
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Mitch Marsh retains his position
Comprehensive Mitch Mars has kept up despite back stiffness that limited his bowling ability in Perth. The team is looking to take home home advantage, particularly under the unique conditions of the pink-ball Tests, where they have historically performed well.
Meanwhile, India are yet to announce their squad for the second Test, which starts on Friday (December 6), but they are likely to see the return of the skipper Rohit Sharmaafter the birth of his second child, along with top class batter Shubman Gillwho is recovering from a thumb injury.
The Australian XI play for the second Test against India
Pat Cummins (c), Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
