Australia Announces Squad for Final Two Tests Against India

The Australian squad for the final two Tests against India in Melbourne and Sydney has been announced, and it sees some big changes. Nathan McSweeney, who opened the batting alongside Usman Khawaja in the first three games, was left out after below-par performances. In his place is Sam Kontas, a 19-year-old batter who got the call-up on the back of some excellent form in domestic cricket. Kontas came into the contention with back-to-back hundreds in the Sheffield Shield and a brilliant 27-ball 56 on his Big Bash League (BBL) debut for Sydney Thunder.

However, that does not necessarily mean Kontas will take the field in the playing XI in the MCG Test. Australia’s management is also contemplating the option of Josh Inglis as a cover batter. While injured Josh Hazlewood is replaced by Jhye Richardson, Scott Boland appears to be the favorite for that position in the XI. Brendan Doggett was left out after he provided cover earlier in the series; Sean Abbott remained in the squad.

Recap of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy So Far

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has thrown up some exhilarating cricket so far. India set the tone by dominating the first Test in Perth with a 295-run victory. Australia, though, hit back strongly with a 10-wicket win in Adelaide to square the series. Australia dominated the third Test at the Gabba, but the rain came to India’s aid as a probable defeat was averted, and the series remained tied at 1-1.

The stakes are high as both teams head to the MCG for the fourth Test. The winner of this fiercely contested series will be decided in the final two matches, which have a significant bearing on the WTC final.

The Race to the World Test Championship Final

This series is of great significance in the context of the WTC final. The winner will book a ticket to the championship decider. But if the series is drawn, the outcome of the South Africa vs Pakistan series may make things a bit more interesting. A 2-0 win for South Africa over Pakistan may rule the loser of this series out. Then, Australia’s performance in the series against Sri Lanka can determine the final WTC participant.

Spotlight on the Players

Sam Kontas: The 19-year-old batter is one of the most exciting inclusions in the squad. His recent performances, including back-to-back hundreds in domestic cricket and a standout BBL debut, have made him a player to watch. His potential debut at the MCG could bring fresh energy to the Australian line-up.

Jhye Richardson: He comes in as the replacement for Hazlewood in the squad. It adds depth to Australia’s pace attack, but Scott Boland will likely replace Hazlewood in the playing XI.

Sean Abbott: Abbott, who was retained in the squad, has been in good form and, with his bowling, provides several options to the team.

Anticipation Builds for the MCG Test

The MCG Test is a very important encounter between the two teams. The series is tied, and the pressure is on. Fans are very eager to see how Australia and India adapt to the high-stakes scenario. For viewers who wish to catch the action, sites such as Winexch provide opportunities to watch live cricket for free, thereby making the experience accessible to fans worldwide.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy Legacy

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is amongst the most hyped rivalry in cricket. Legends of the sport, like Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as the “godfather of cricket,” have graced this series with some of the greatest moments to remember. No less in this edition, every match has its promise of keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Australia Squad for the Final Two Tests

• Pat Cummins (c)
• Sean Abbott
• Scott Boland
• Alex Carey
• Travis Head
• Josh Inglis
• Usman Khawaja
• Sam Kontas
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Nathan Lyon
• Mitchell Marsh
• Jhye Richardson
• Steven Smith
• Mitchell Starc
• Beau Webster

FAQ

1. Whom did Sam Kontas replace in the Australian squad?

Sam Kontas replaced Nathan McSweeney in the Australian squad for the last two Tests.

2. What is the scoreline of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at present?

The series stands at 1-1 after three matches.

3. Why is the series important in the context of the World Test Championship?

The winner of the series will book a spot in the WTC final, while a draw could make qualification a bit more complicated.

4. Where can fans watch live cricket for free?

Fans can enjoy live cricket for free on platforms such as Winexch because of their accessibility in service provision.

5. Who is considered the “godfather of cricket”?

Sachin Tendulkar is often described as the “godfather of cricket” since he had unparalleled contributions to the game.