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Australia has unveiled their playing XI for the crucial third Test against India at the Gabba, with star pacer Josh Hazlewood making his much-anticipated return. Hazlewood, who missed the Adelaide Test due to a side strain, has been declared fit after undergoing extensive training and fitness tests.
The 33-year-old replaces Scott Boland, who impressed with five wickets in Adelaide but makes way to preserve the formidable pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Hazlewood. Hazlewood was in excellent form during the series opener in Perth, where he claimed a five-wicket haul across both innings, solidifying his place in the XI.
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Concerns Over Australia’s Batting
While Australia boasts a strong bowling unit, their batting line-up has raised questions. Senior players Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith have struggled for consistency, leaving Australia vulnerable to early collapses. Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne’s recent half-century hasn’t convinced critics, and young Nathan McSweeney is still finding his feet in the Test setup.
India, led by Rohit Sharma, will aim to capitalize on these vulnerabilities. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj leading the charge, the visitors will look to strike early and expose Australia’s middle order, where Travis Head has been in sublime form and remains a key wicket for India.
Importance of the Third Test
The series is finely poised, with the third Test at the Gabba holding immense significance. Both teams are vying for a lead in the series, which could prove pivotal in their pursuit of a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final. Momentum from this Test will also be critical heading into the final matches in Melbourne and Sydney.
Pat Cummins on Hazlewood and Boland
“Josh comes back in… had no hiccups,” said Australian captain Pat Cummins. “He had a really good bowl yesterday and another in Adelaide earlier. He and the medical team are super confident.”
Cummins acknowledged the tough decision to leave Boland out, praising his contributions. “It’s tough; he was fantastic in Adelaide. Whenever he’s played, he’s been brilliant. A shame for Scotty, but there’s still a lot of cricket left this summer. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get another crack at some point.”
Australia Playing XI for Gabba Test
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitch Marsh
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood
The battle resumes as both teams gear up for a potentially series-defining contest at one of the world’s most iconic Test venues.
