Cricket Australia has announced a formidable 13-player squad for the upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh next month. Regular captain Pat Cummins, star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, and veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon have all made their return to the Test setup following injury layoffs.
The key trio was sidelined for a significant portion of the recent Ashes series due to injuries. However, they are set to make their return to red-ball cricket for this crucial series against Bangladesh.
Alongside Cummins and Hazlewood, the pace attack will be spearheaded by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. The squad also features all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster. With the return of the senior stars, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett have missed out on selection.
Following Usman Khawaja’s retirement from Test cricket, the top order sees minor adjustments, though the core batting unit remains intact. The selectors have reposed their faith in seasoned campaigners Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and Travis Head, alongside wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis and opener Jake Weatherald.
Part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, the first Test of the series will commence on August 13 in Darwin, with the second and final Test scheduled to begin on August 22 in Mackay.
