Australia’s pace battery is set to be at full strength for the pivotal third Test against India in Brisbane, as Josh Hazlewood returns after recovering from a side strain. The series is delicately balanced at 1-1, with India claiming a commanding 295-run victory in Perth, only to falter with a 10-wicket loss under the pink ball in Adelaide. Hazlewood, instrumental in Perth with a five-wicket haul, missed the second Test but has been declared fit to join Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc in the attack.
“Josh is back, and he’s had no setbacks. He bowled really well yesterday and earlier this week,” said Pat Cummins. “The medical team is confident, and so is he.”
While Josh Hazlewood’s inclusion strengthens Australia’s bowling lineup, it meant a tough call for skipper Cummins, who confirmed that Scott Boland will sit out despite his stellar performance in Adelaide. Boland, who took five wickets across two innings, impressed once again but will wait for another opportunity.
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“It’s hard to leave Scotty out; he was excellent in Adelaide,” Pat Cummins acknowledged. “He’s been amazing whenever he’s gotten a chance, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays again later in the series.”
OFFICIAL;
Australia announced their Playing XI.
Josh Hazelwood Replaces Scott Boland in the XI, as he has been declared Fit for tomorrow match.#AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/jV54KAdRDc— Football Lover (@ahmad38809) December 13, 2024
The Gabba, once an Australian fortress, has lost some of its sheen after India famously ended their 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue in 2021, sealing a historic 2-1 series win. While Australia bounced back with victories over England and South Africa, a surprising defeat to the West Indies earlier this year reignited questions about their dominance at the ground.
Pat Cummins, however, downplayed any psychological impact tied to the Gabba’s history. “It’s just another venue. It’s always nice to return to familiar conditions, but every game starts fresh at 0-0,” he remarked. “What matters is how we play, not the history.”
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The third Test, starting Saturday, promises to be a fierce contest as both teams aim to take a crucial lead in this gripping five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With Australia’s pace trio reunited and India eager to rebound, fans can expect high-intensity cricket at the Gabba.
Australia’s Playing XI: Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
