The Australian selectors have been forced to make a last minute change to their squad for the upcoming first Test against India in Adelaide, with fast bowler James Cummins ruled out due to injury. The selectors have called up Victorian paceman Scott Boland as his replacement.
The injury to Cummins is a cruel blow for the Australian team just days out from the start of the Test series. The injury has been described as a “low-grade” side strain, with Cummins understood to be missing at least a week of cricket.
Boland has been rewarded for a strong start to the domestic season, having already taken seven wickets in two Sheffield Shield matches. He also made his international debut in a one-day match against India earlier this month.
Boland’s recall is a timely reminder of the strength and depth in the Australian cricket system. The selectors can be confident that, if one of their premier bowlers has to drop out, they have a dependable back-up in Boland.
The Australian team will be taking confidence back into the Test series after a successful tour of Sri Lanka earlier in November. A win in Adelaide would give their Ashes campaign a massive boost. The selectors will be hoping Boland can step in and replicate the impressive form Cummins has displayed in recent times.
The first Test between Australia and India starts on Thursday, December 6th.
Cummins ruled out of Adelaide Test, Boland recalled
Australia’s leading fast bowler, Pat Cummins, has been ruled out of the Adelaide Test match against India due to an injury. As a result, Australia have called up Victorian seamer Scott Boland as his replacement.
Cummins’ Injury
Cummins suffered a back injury during the second innings of the Brisbane Test. He skipped practice the day ahead of the Adelaide Test to receive treatment. After undergoing scans, Cummins has been advised to rest from the remainder of the series.
Boland Called Up
With Cummins ruled out, the Australian selectors have called up untested Scott Boland to join the test squad. It is the first time Boland will be representing his country in a Test match.
Boland’s Career
Boland has enjoyed success in domestic cricket, representing both Victoria and the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League. He has a career first-class record spanning over 48 matches, picking up 140 wickets at an average of 26.80.
Australia’s Chances
With Cummins out of the remainder of the Test series, the rest of the Australian fast bowlers will now need to share the workload. Additionally, Australia’s spin contingent of Nathan Lyon and Steve O’Keefe will be expected to contain India’s star-studded batting line-up.
Australia Squad For Adelaide Test
The following players have been chosen for the Adelaide Test:
- David Warner
- Joe Burns
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steven Smith
- Travis Head
- Cameron Green
- Tim Paine (c & wk)
- Mitchell Starc
- Josh Hazlewood
- Nathan Lyon
- Michael Neser
- James Pattinson
- Steve O’Keefe
- Scott Boland
