As the New Year approaches, the Sydney Cricket Ground is set to witness a historic moment in cricket as David Warner prepares for his final Test match in the baggy green. Australia has declared an unchanged squad of 13 for the third and final Test against Pakistan, keeping the winning combination intact.
Warner, one of Australia’s finest openers, has long anticipated this Test to be his farewell on home soil, and the upcoming match at his home ground holds immense significance. The New Year’s Test will mark the culmination of an illustrious red-ball career for the veteran batsman, and he aims to bid adieu in style.
The decision to maintain the same squad comes on the heels of Australia’s victory in Melbourne, securing the Test series against Pakistan. Chair of Selectors George Bailey expressed excitement about toasting Warner’s remarkable career and hoped for a triumphant end to the series.
“The NSP [National Selection Panel] has retained the same squad from Melbourne to Sydney as we look to clean sweep the Test series,” said Bailey. “We look forward to celebrating David Warner’s final Test match and his incredible career at his home ground.”
Despite sealing the series, Australia opted for continuity, sticking with the winning bowling attack. The cult hero, Scott Boland, remains on standby, ready to step in if needed.
The New Year’s Test at the SCG promises to be a fitting farewell for Warner, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the unfolding of this historic moment on January 3.
Australia Squad for the Third Test:
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Scott Boland
- Alex Carey
- Cameron Green
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Nathan Lyon
- Mitch Marsh
- Steve Smith
- Mitch Starc
- David Warner
