Australia are gearing up to face India in the World Test Championship final, which is set to begin on June 7 at The Oval. However, they have faced a setback as Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the match due to injury concerns. Michael Neser has been named as his replacement in the squad, but captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that Scott Boland will take Hazlewood’s place in the playing XI for this crucial encounter.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Cummins expressed his observations about playing in England, where the ball tends to swing and seam more. He cautioned against getting too carried away with taking wickets on every ball and emphasized the importance of hitting good areas consistently throughout the day. Cummins praised Boland’s performance during practice sessions in England, stating that the game-plan for him is simple: stick to the plan, maintain good areas, and let the ball do the work.
With four bowlers in their squad and the added option of Cameron Green’s bowling abilities, the Australian team possesses multiple choices in the pace department. Given the demanding schedule of playing six Tests in a span of seven and a half weeks, the team plans to rotate their fast bowlers. Cummins confirmed that the bowlers would give their all, taking advantage of the team’s depth and resources. Hazlewood, who was close to being available for the WTC final, is expected to join the team for the first Ashes Test.
Boland’s impressive performances have earned him a spot in the WTC final. His bowling average of 13.42, the lowest among any Test cricketer who has bowled at least 1000 deliveries since the 20th century, showcases his consistency and skill. He has taken 28 wickets in 12 innings at a strike rate of 33.2 in Australia, where the playing conditions bear similarities to those in England. The Australian team will rely on Boland to deliver an impressive spell in this crucial match.
25 wickets in five Tests, at a touch over 10 apiece.
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 22, 2022
Watch how Scott Boland's bowling average has progressed since his debut! 📉 pic.twitter.com/nrMzHAQB0I
The likely playing XI for Australia includes David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland.
