In a bid to continue their winning run, Australia have named an unchanged playing XI for the PAK vs AUS Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Australia romped home to a massive 360-run win over Pakistan in the 1st Test at Perth, with Shan Masood and co failing to fire with both ball and bat.
No Boland, Australia to stick with same XI for PAK vs AUS MCG Test
While many expected to see the fiery Scot Boland find a spot in the XI, Australia skipper Pat Cummins stated that they were going with the same XI as the 1st Test. Boland made his stunning debut at the MCG against England in 2021 and wreaked havoc, picking up 10 wickets with a career best of 6-7.
“We’re huge fans of Scotty, it’s very rare you’re going to get through seven Test matches with the same quick bowling line-up,” Cummins said. “There’s always niggles or things that pop up, so he’s ready to go if anything happens.
“I’m sure he’ll play a part at some point, but the message is always we absolutely love what you bring, unfortunately you miss out on this one, but don’t change, keep working hard and make sure you stay ready.”
Rain will also play a crucial factor for the home side as the pitch is expected to be prepared drier than usual as it remains under covers constantly.
“It looks really good, fair bit of grass, probably a fair bit harder and not as green as last year, knowing it was potentially going to be under covers today and for a little bit tomorrow maybe, so we’ll see how it plays but it looks like a really good wicket”, Pat Cummins said, as per Fox News.
AUS playing XI for Boxing Day Test
- 1. David Warner
- 2. Usman Khawaja
- 3. Marnus Labuschagne
- 4. Steve Smith
- 5. Travis Head
- 6. Mitchell Marsh
- 7. Alex Carey
- 8. Mitchell Starc
- 9. Pat Cummins
- 10. Nathan Lyon
- 11. Josh Hazlewood
Editor's Pick
Top Stories
