Australia has announced their playing XI for the highly anticipated Boxing Day Test against India, which kicks off on Thursday. In a significant shake-up, the hosts have made two major changes to their squad. The injured Josh Hazlewood makes way for Scott Boland, while teenage opener Sam Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney, with Konstas set to become Australia’s youngest Test debutant since Pat Cummins made his debut in 2011.
In another boost for Australia, Travis Head has been declared fully fit for the match, after concerns over a minor thigh strain picked up during the Gabba Test. Head, the highest run-scorer for Australia in the ongoing five-match series, is ready to take the field.
Two Major Changes in Australia’s Playing XI
The injury to Josh Hazlewood has opened up a spot for Scott Boland, who will be looking to prove his worth in the absence of Hazlewood. The pacer’s experience and skill in Australian conditions should add balance to the bowling attack, which already boasts the likes of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.
Teenager Sam Konstas will take his place at the top of the order, replacing Nathan McSweeney. Konstas, who has shown great promise in domestic cricket, will be hoping to leave a mark in his debut Test match. If selected, he will become the youngest Test debutant for Australia since Cummins.
Travis Head Fully Fit and Ready for the Test
Travis Head, who has been in sensational form throughout the series, has been confirmed fit to play after recovering from a thigh strain. Head has scored 409 runs at an average of 81.80 in the series so far, including centuries in both Adelaide and Brisbane. His aggressive batting style has provided much-needed stability in the Australian middle order, especially as other batters have struggled against India’s pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah.
Skipper Pat Cummins expressed confidence in Head’s fitness ahead of the Boxing Day Test. “Trav is good to go, so he will play. No stress, no worries about injury for Trav,” Cummins stated. “He’s hitting the ball really cleanly and you can see the pressure he shifts back onto the opposition, literally from the first ball.”
Series Tied at 1-1: All Eyes on the Boxing Day Test
With the series tied at 1-1, the Boxing Day Test is set to be a crucial encounter. India dominated the first Test in Perth with a 295-run win, while Australia bounced back with a dominant 10-wicket victory in Adelaide. The rain-affected third Test in Brisbane ended in a draw, leaving both teams with a lot to prove in this highly competitive series.
The Boxing Day Test is expected to be a thrilling contest as both teams are in search of an important victory. Australia will be hoping their changes make a difference and continue their momentum from the last Test.
