Australia 13-player squad for 2nd Test against Pakistan in Melbourne was revealed, with the hope of fielding an unchanged XI.
The home team unveiled a trimmed-down roster on Monday, leaving out backup fast bowler Lance Morris.
On Sunday, the Australians defeated the visitors by 360 runs in four days in Perth, with off-spinner Nathan Lyon collecting his 500th wicket.
Opener David Warner struck a fighting 164 to secure his spot in the Boxing Day Test, which is anticipated to be his last series.
The 37-year-old has suggested that the third Test in Sydney will be his last, and he has been under fire following a poor run, with former fast bowler Mitchell Johnson claiming he does not deserve a hero’s send-off.
Also Read: PSL 9 All Team Squads Revealed
Morris was freed to participate in the Big Bash League, with speed spearheads Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood all available due to injuries, and Scott Boland the first choice if a replacement was required.
“Lance has been released for the Melbourne match but will stay prepared for Test cricket as he remains firmly in our plans for the summer, should an opportunity arise,” George Bailey, the head selector, told reporters.
“Otherwise, the squad remains unchanged following the strong performance in Perth.”
Australia Squad
David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, and Cameron Green constitute the team’s batting order.
Australia Tour Dates
- PM’s XI versus Pakistan four-day match, December 6-9, Manuka Oval, Canberra
- Australia vs. Pakistan, December 14-18, Perth Stadium
- Australia vs. Pakistan – 2nd Test – December 26-30: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
- Australia vs. Pakistan, 3rd Test, January 3-7, Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
