NZ vs AUS 1st Test, Australia Playing XI: Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, has opted for continuity in his team selection for the crucial first Test against New Zealand, starting this Thursday in Wellington.
Unchanged Australia Playing XI
Speaking at the Basin Reserve, Pat Cummins confirmed there will be “no surprises” in the Australia playing XI. The Australians will field the same side that lost to the West Indies in Brisbane last month, despite calls for potential changes after the recent defeat.
Experienced core:
This means experienced openers Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja will continue their partnership at the top of the order, with the in-form Cameron Green batting at number four.
The potent pace attack of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood remains unchanged, offering a wealth of experience to the bowling unit.
New Zealand’s Selection Woes:
While Australia maintains stability in their selection, New Zealand grapples with an injury concern. Opener Devon Conway has been ruled out due to a thumb injury sustained during the T20 series against Australia. Veteran batsman Henry Nicholls has been called in as batting cover.
Black Caps Captain Remains Tight-Lipped:
New Zealand captain Tim Southee confirmed that rising talent Rachin Ravindra, who suffered a knee injury during the T20s, is fit to play the Test. However, he remained tight-lipped about the final New Zealand XI, keeping the Australians guessing about their opponents’ strategy.
The Match Up:
The first Test between New Zealand and Australia promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams are vying for crucial points in the ongoing World Test Championship. Australia will be looking to bounce back from their recent loss, while New Zealand will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and the absence of Conway to seize the early lead in the series.
The first ball of the Test will be bowled at 9am AEDT on Thursday. All eyes will be on both teams to see who can emerge victorious in this highly anticipated clash.
Australia Playing XI for first Test vs New Zealand
Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
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