The Australia opener, David Warner and Will Pucovski have made a comeback to the squad for the last two Tests against India even as out-of-form opening batsman Joe Burns has been dropped. Warner’s inclusion is a boost for the hosts after suffering an 8-wicket loss in the second Test with their batsmen not able to cross 200 across two innings. Fast bowler Sean Abbott will also be joining the squad after recovering from a calf strain.
Burns will be expected to be swapped with Warner at the top of the order even as the southpaw continues his recovery from the groin injury he sustained last month. On the other hand, Pucovski suffered a concussion while batting in a warm-up game. The concussion ruled Pucovski out of the first two Tests. Australia captain Tim Paine on Tuesday was optimistic about Warner’s making a comeback to the playing XI, saying the opening bat looked “very good for the third Test.”
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However, Pucovski will still be required to clear further tests before he is cleared for a possible debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Informing the same, as per the quotes in cricket.com.au., chief selectors, Trevor Hohns said, “Will is in the final stages of the graduated return to play protocols and has been symptom-free for some time. He will be fit to play in Sydney subject to completing the return to play protocols and an independent assessment. David has made strong progress in his recovery from injury and will be given every chance to play in Sydney with another seven days until the match.”
Warner’s return will replenish Australia’s batting resources as they will be eyeing for a win in the Sydney Test before which their batting line-up came under scrutiny. Sean Abbott’s addition gives Australia another bowling option should any of their mainstays – Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins – be injured.
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Australia squad for last two Tests: Tim Paine (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner
