Melbourne, December 25, 2024: Cricket Australia has announced the playing XI for the fourth Test against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scheduled to begin tomorrow (December 26) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) at 5:00 AM IST.
Key Changes in the Australian Playing XI
Sam Konstas is set to make his Test debut after being included in the squad as a replacement for Nathan McSweeney.
McSweeney was dropped from the team following underwhelming performances in the first three matches of the series.
Konstas’ inclusion marks a promising opportunity for the young batter to showcase his talent on the international stage.
Fitness Update on Travis Head
Travis Head, who sustained a minor quad strain during the Brisbane Test last week, has cleared a stringent fitness test conducted on Christmas Day.
The experienced middle-order batter has been declared fit and will take his place in the lineup for the crucial fourth Test.
Scott Boland Replaces Josh Hazlewood
In another significant change, fast bowler Scott Boland has been recalled to the Playing XI, replacing Josh Hazlewood. Hazlewood has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to an injury.
“He bowled beautifully in Adelaide,” Pat Cummins said. “Whenever he gets his chance, he steps in and looks like he’s one of the best bowlers in the world.
“I expect him (to do) much the same. He loves bowling here, he’s played probably more than anyone else here at the MCG in our team. He’s prepared really well.
“It is pretty awesome that even with an unfortunate injury like Josh has, you can have someone like Scotty to come straight in seamlessly.”
Series Locked at 1-1
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is currently tied at 1-1, making the fourth Test a pivotal encounter for both teams. With the series hanging in the balance, Australia will aim to leverage home conditions at the MCG, while India will be eager to regain the lead.
Australia XI:
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
Match Details
Fixture: Australia vs India, 4th Test
Date: December 26, 2024
Time: 5:00 AM IST
Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
