Australia have announced their playing XI for the upcoming day-night Test against India at the Adelaide Oval, with a notable change in the bowling lineup. Scott Boland has been brought in to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood, who was a key performer in the first Test but is sidelined due to a side strain.
Scott Boland returns after 18 months
Boland’s inclusion marks his return to Test cricket after an 18-month hiatus, with his last appearance being during the Ashes series. Boland’s experience will be crucial as Australia looks to bounce back from their heavy 295-run defeat in Perth, where Hazlewood took four wickets on Day 1 but could not prevent a collapse in the second innings.
Australia captain Pat Cummins expressed enthusiasm about Boland’s return, stating, “It’s pretty awesome for someone like Scotty to come straight in.” This change comes as Australia aims to level the series after India took a 1-0 lead with their impressive performance in the first Test of the five-match series.
Also READ: AUS vs IND, 2nd Test – Adelaide Oval Pitch Report, Adelaide Test stats and records
Mitch Marsh retains his place
All-rounder Mitch Marsh has been retained despite experiencing back stiffness that limited his bowling capabilities in Perth. The team is looking to leverage its home advantage, particularly under the unique conditions of pink-ball Tests, where they have historically performed well.
Meanwhile, India are yet to announce their squad for the second Test, starting on Friday (December 6), but they are likely to see the return of skipper Rohit Sharma, following the birth of his second child, along with top-order batter Shubman Gill, who is recovering from a thumb injury.
Australia’s playing XI for second Test against India
Pat Cummins (c), Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
