Australia have made some big changes to their squad ahead of the fourth Ashes Test. Skipper Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon will both miss the Test with injuries. Steve Smith takes the reins in their next match against Pakistan this Friday. If successful, they’ll perform on the legendary Sydney Cricket Ground.
Cummins was recently forced back from a serious back complaint to feature in the winner-takes-all third Test in Adelaide. Sadly, he’ll be missing both the fourth and fifth Tests as they try to preserve his long-term fitness and not put him at risk.
“To jeopardise him long-term is not something we want to do and Pat is really comfortable with that.” – Andrew McDonald
On a broader level, the lack of Lyon is a huge blow for the Australian side. A massive miss, he’ll have surgery on a hamstring injury suffered during the third Test. Lyon’s figures of 2-55 in the first Test were his worst ever by overs bowled. His earliest absence from the second Test compounded questions about his fitness for the duration of the series.
The updated team for the fourth Test therefore comprises a blend of experience and future stars. After impressing in his debut Test against England, Scott Boland lines up again, alongside fellow wicketkeeper Alex Carey in the XI. Cameron Green and Travis Head round out the batting order, adding patience and pragmatism along with their counter-attacking sensibilities.
New faces like Brendan Doggett and Jake Weatherald have been called up, reflecting the team’s strategy to reinforce its ranks amid injury concerns. The playing roster is loaded with talent. Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Mitchell Starc are among them. Beau Webster is another new face to this reshuffled side.
As Australia prepares for the fourth Ashes Test, they aim to capitalize on their home advantage while navigating the challenges posed by injuries to key players. Smith’s leadership will be key. Smith will play an important role in helping Australia stay on top of a strong Steven-Taylor-led England team.
Leave a Reply