Image: Sam Konstas and Jhye Richardson named in Australia Test squad / © Nine
The final two test matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy are on the line and Australia has made key changes to their squad. Teenager Sam Konstas, 19, has been added to the team for the remaining Tests in Melbourne and Sydney. Konstas earned his spot after scoring a century against India in the warm-up match for the Prime Minister’s XI. Meanwhile, Nathan McSweeney, who struggled against India’s Jasprit Bumrah in the Perth Test, has been dropped from the squad. Chief selector George Bailey highlighted Konstas’ unique batting style and said they’re excited to see his development. Additionally, due to Josh Hazlewood’s injury, Jhye Richardson replaces him. Richardson has previously played three Tests, taking 11 wickets at an average of 22.09, but injuries have slowed his career. The revised squad includes Pat Cummins (captain), Travis Head (vice-captain), Steve Smith (vice-captain), and others. Bailey expressed confidence in the future success of McSweeney, but the decision to omit him was tough given the challenges at the top of the order.
Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (VC), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.