Australia confirm playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also declares a fit Travis Head
Australia have presented their playing eleven against India for the fourth fundamental test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25scheduled at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The announcement clarified the key fitness concerns, especially around the star batsman Chief Traviswhose inclusion significantly boosts Australia’s prospects in this must-win Boxing Day clash.
Travis Head has been declared fit for the Boxing Day Test
Head, Australia’s most consistent batsman in the series, has been cleared to play after overcoming a groin injury suffered during the third Test in Brisbane. The injury cast doubts over his availability, but Head completed an intense fitness test and net session on Christmas Day to prove his readiness. captain Pat Cumminsaddressing the media, he expressed his confidence in Head’s fitness. Cummins added that while Head will be fully fit to bat, the team can manage his fielding workload if needed.
“Trav (Head) is ready, he will play. Just started some final stuff today and yesterday. But don’t worry about injuries with Trav. He will go into the game fully fit. I don’t think you’ll see too much management from him throughout the game. He just plays the way he is. Maybe on the field, if he’s a little bit uncomfortable, we’ll manage him, but he’s totally fit.” Cummins said.
Head’s form has been central to Australia’s campaign, with notable centuries in Adelaide and Brisbane anchoring the team’s innings under pressure. His inclusion ensures solidity in the middle order, boosting the team’s confidence at a venue where they have historically faced challenges against India.
Mitchell Marsh held on despite the criticism
Meanwhile, underwhelming performances in the series, Mitchell Marsh has retained his place in the XI. Your pick on the headless Beau Webster highlights the team’s confidence in the all-rounder’s experience and ability to deliver at crucial moments. Marsh’s presence also strengthens the balance of the team, providing an additional bowling option to complement the pace attack.
In a bold move, Australia have handed over a 19-year-old Constas himself his debut. The teenager replaces Nathan McSweeneywhich was dropped after a short three-test run. An up-and-coming talent, Konstas will become Australia’s youngest Test opener and the youngest debutant since Pat Cummins in 2011. Konstas’ inclusion underlines Australia’s commitment to nurturing young talent, and the world of cricket is eagerly awaiting his performance in one of the most prestigious matches. of the series The debutant’s temperament and technique will be tested against a formidable Indian bowling attack on a challenging MCG surface.
READ also: AUS vs IND 2024, 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground Report, Melbourne Test Stats & Records
Substitute Josh Hazlewood
Scott Bolandwho has a stellar record at the MCG, returns to the starting line-up, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood. Boland’s return provides a significant boost to Australia’s pace arsenal, especially at a venue known for rewarding fast bowlers with sharp bounce and delivery. Boland’s ability to extract movement and maintain relentless accuracy could be a decisive factor in Australia’s quest for dominance. His home advantage further enhances his impact, making him a key player in the team’s strategy.
Australia’s struggle against India at the MCG
Australia’s record against India at the MCG over the past decade has been far from encouraging. Since their last win in 2011, the 2014 Boxing Day Test ended in a draw, with the hosts suffering defeats in 2018 and 2020. India’s ability to adapt to Australian conditions and their formidable bowling attack have played a crucial role in these results. Australia will be aiming to rewrite history with a rejuvenated squad and capitalize on home advantage in this high-stakes encounter.
Australia field XI for fourth Test against India
- Constas himself
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Chief Travis
- Mitchell Marsh
- Alex Carey (week)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Scott Boland
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
English