Australia Opts for Pace Attack in Boxing Day Test as Smith Returns
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Australia names a pace-heavy lineup for the Boxing Day Test, with Steve Smith returning to captain in place of Pat Cummins. Key selection insights and strategic implications.
Australia has announced its intention to field four specialist pace bowlers for the Boxing Day Test against England at the MCG, a decision influenced by the green and lively nature of the pitch. Stand-in captain Steve Smith confirmed the selection strategy, emphasizing the team's focus on exploiting the anticipated seam movement.
The final XI remains unconfirmed, with Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and Jhye Richardson vying for the remaining spots in the pace attack. This marks the second instance in the series where Australia has opted for a quartet of quicks, mirroring their approach in the second Test in Brisbane where Doggett and Neser both featured. Neser, who took five wickets in the second innings of that day-night match, is in line to play his first red-ball Test, having previously only participated in pink-ball encounters.
Smith's return to captaincy, following an inner-ear issue that sidelined him from the previous Test, results in Josh Inglis missing out. Usman Khawaja retains his place in the batting lineup after scoring 82 and 40 in Adelaide. Khawaja will shift to No. 5 in the batting order, with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald continuing as the opening pair after Head's century in the last match.
The decision to prioritize pace over spin means that Victorian spinner Todd Murphy will have to wait for his opportunity to play a home Boxing Day Test. Jhye Richardson is also in contention for his first Test appearance in four years, with Smith highlighting Richardson's past success against England.
Australia's finalized 12-man squad includes Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and Jhye Richardson.
England has also announced their XI, with Jacob Bethell replacing Ollie Pope at No.3 and Gus Atkinson coming in for the injured Jofra Archer.
Editor’s note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.
