Australia name 14-member squad for first two Tests against India

The Australian Cricket Board named the 14-man squad for the first two Tests against India–the first one beginning on December 6 in Adelaide.

Tim Paine, as in recent times would be seen leading the team while the board has named the likes of Marcus Harris and Chris Tremain–both of whom are uncapped. The pace bowling department would be shouldered by the trio of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. They would be joined by the experience of Peter Siddle and newcomer Tremain.

CONFIRMED

?? Test squad for first two Tests against ??: Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood (vc), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh (vc), Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine (c,wk), Mitchell Starc, Chris Tremain, Peter Siddle #AUSvIND https://t.co/em7t24n4F5

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2018

National selector, while commenting on the selection of Marcus Harris said, “Marcus Harris has forced his way into the squad after an impressive start to the Sheffield Shield campaign for Victoria, and in recent times has performed in high-pressure matches, including Sheffield Shield finals. Not only has he made plenty of runs, he’s displayed the mental application we believe is required to compete at Test cricket.”

Tremain, who emerged as the second highest wicket-taker in the Sheffield Shield this season earned his maiden call-up and Hohns, while speaking on his selection, said, “Chris Tremain has also been performing consistently with the ball for Victoria. His form in the Sheffield Shield has seen him become the second highest wicket-taker in the competition this season. He has also been a consistent wicket-taker over the past two seasons, and thoroughly deserves his place in the squad.”

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In the batting department, young opener Matt Renshaw missed out on a spot as Usman Khawaja, who had sustained an injury in the Test series against Pakistan would expectedly recover in time for the first match set to begin on December 6. Wicket-keeper batsman Peter Handscomb also has recalled to the squad while Shaun Marsh, who had a horrible time against Pakistan also finds a place in the team.

The opening slot nonetheless would be occupied by Aaron Finch who recently made his debut in the baggy green against Pakistan. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head also have been named in the squad.

Australia squad for first two Tests against India: Tim Paine (captain), Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Peter Siddle, Chris Tremain.

Image credit-Herald Sun