Australia has announced a reshuffled squad for the crucial Boxing Day Test at the MCG, with significant changes forced upon the selectors following injuries to two senior players.
Captain Pat Cummins, who made a triumphant return from a back injury in Adelaide, will not feature in the remaining matches of the Ashes series. Despite a strong performance, team management has decided against risking the fast bowler’s long-term fitness now that the series is secured. Head coach Andrew McDonald stated the decision was a straightforward one, prioritizing the player’s health over short-term gain.
In further significant news, veteran spinner Nathan Lyon faces an extended period on the sidelines after undergoing surgery for a hamstring injury sustained in the field. McDonald described Lyon as “shattered” by the setback, acknowledging the “long recovery” ahead for the 38-year-old, who had just reclaimed his place with a five-wicket haul.
To fill the void, selectors have turned to 25-year-old off-spinner Todd Murphy. The Victorian, who last played a Test in February, gets the nod ahead of other contenders and will be tasked with leading the spin attack. The pace bowling reserves have also been bolstered with the inclusion of Jhye Richardson, Brendan Doggett, and Michael Neser.
Steve Smith will resume the captaincy in Cummins’s absence, having recovered from the ear issue that kept him out of the previous Test. The squad continues to feature several players vying for permanent middle-order positions, including Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, and Usman Khawaja.
The updated 15-player squad for Melbourne is: Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.