The Australian cricket team has reworked their squad after a disappointing loss to the Indian cricket team in the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The hosts have ruled out Joe Burns from the squad the opener batsman failed to deliver as per expectations.
Top-order batsman David Warner and Will Pucovski will make a comeback in the squad for the third and fourth Test, as confirmed by the team selector.
Warner is on the way to full recovery from his groin injury and had been eyeing his return in the squad for the remaining Tests. Pucovski’s Test debut was obstructed by concussion but now a significant improvement in his condition has reopened the opportunity for him.
Australian team’s selector Trevor Hohns said, “Will is in the final stages of the graduated return to play protocols and has been symptom-free for some time. He will be fit to play in Sydney subject to completing the return to play protocols and an independent assessment”
“Joe Burns has been released from the squad and will return to the Brisbane Heat. Unfortunately, Joe’s returns haven’t been what he or the selectors would like or what we consider he is capable of.”
“David has made strong progress in his recovery from injury and will be given every chance to play in Sydney with another seven days until the match,” he added.
Pacer Sean Abbott is likely to make his return in the team as well, having recovered from his calf injury.
“Sean has fully recovered from a calf strain and is also available for selection,” Hohns informed.
Australia updated Test squad:
Tim Paine (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner
