Sydney: Usman Khawaja will replace Travis head in Australia’s middle order for the fourth gray test this week against England in the only change to the side that wrapped the series in Melbourne last week, said Skipper Pat Cummins on Tuesday.
Back Khawaja for his first test since 2019 it was expected after the head was ruled out by a positive Covid-19 test but the Pace Bowler Scott Boland retention was something surprising.
Boland is considered a Melbourne specialist when he gave his debut in the third test but the 32-year-old player took his chance with both hands.
Sixth for seven in the second half helped Australia to be inings pounding and 14-run victory and making it the opportunity to keep his place to support Josh Hazlewood, who still suffered from side tensions suffered on the first test.
Official #ashes Update | Pat Cummins has confirmed a change to Australia’s XI for the fourth vodafone …
https://t.co/IQWQ9M2W4X- Cricket Australia (@Cricketaus) 1641250736000 “Not secret, if Joshy Hazlewood is available, he will play, he’s a bowler Brilliant for us for a long time, “Cummins told reporters at Sydney Cricket Ground, where the match began on Wednesday.
“Too bad see Scotty doesn’t play this week after his efforts last week.
It’s a pity for Joshy but I’m really happy (Scott) get another gap here.” Cummins said Hazlewood might be fit to play on the fifth test in Hobart from January 14-18.
There are suggestions in local media that Mitchell Swepson’s spinner can be awarded his first test hat in a twin slow attack with Nathan Lyon.
Cummins, however, said he didn’t expect SCG Wicket to worsen enough to make a decent strategy.
Pat Cummins explained what happened to ensure he was at the peak for the absent of Series.Dettol b …
https://t.co/8rvxtugsgf- Cricket.com.au (@CricketCou) 1641070657000 “I don’t think anywhere Australia I play in the past two years has dictated two spinners, “he added.
“He’s a class bowler and we itchy to bring it to the side of one day.
We think he will debut at several stages, most likely abroad.” Australia leads the 3-0 draw after winning in Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne.
Team: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (Wicketkeeper), Pat Cummins (Captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Bolland.