AUS vs PAK: Australia Squad For 2nd Test vs Pakistan Announced, Marnus Labuschagne Retains His Place Despite Injury

Australia have revealed their 13-player squad for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Pakistan. The second Test of the three-match series between Australia and Pakistan is scheduled to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, starting on Tuesday, December 26.

The Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. Despite the victory in the first match in Perth, the defending champions maintained their fifth place in the standings. Meanwhile, Pakistan dropped to the second position behind India.

Australia Announces 13-Member Squad For Second Test

Following their emphatic 360-run victory against Pakistan, Australia has decided to reduce their playing group from 14 to 13 for the upcoming Boxing Day Test. Uncapped pacer Lance Morris has been removed from the squad to be part of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24.

The team might stick with the winning combination for the upcoming match. All-rounder Cameron Green has retained his place in the squad but is unlikely to get a chance in the final playing XI. Scott Boland is the only other available pace bowling option in the squad.

Star batter Marnus Labuschagne, who suffered a finger injury during the opening Test against Pakistan, has been cleared of any serious damage. Consequently, Labuschagne is expected to retain his place in the playing XI and would bat at his regular place in No. 3 position.

Also Read: PAK vs AUS: David Warner To Take Back Test Retirement Call? Former Australian Legend Shocking Revelation

The Ideal Start To The Summer – Pat Cummins

Australia skipper Pat Cummins hinted at a similar playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, stating that if injuries won’t be a concern, the team is likely to remain unchanged. Cummins mentioned that the bowlers are in good condition after the victory in Perth.

“I don’t think injuries are going to be an issue, so I dare say it will be a pretty similar line-up at this stage. I think all the bowlers are pretty fresh after (the win in Perth). It’s basically the ideal start to the summer,” said Cummins.

Lance Morris Remains Firmly In Our Plans – George Bailey

Chief selector George Bailey mentioned that Lance Morris has been released for the Melbourne match. However, Bailey emphasized that the young pacer remains a crucial part of Australia’s plans for the summer.

Australia secured a commanding victory, posting scores of 487 and 233/5 declared while dismissing Pakistan for 271 and 89. David Warner, who is playing his farewell series, scored 164 in the first innings, and Nathan Lyon achieved the milestone of 500 Test wickets.

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh excelled with both bat and ball, scoring 90 runs and an unbeaten 63 runs. The fast bowler dismissed former Pakistan skipper Babar Azam in the first innings. He was named Player of the Match for his all-around performance.

Australia squad for the second Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Mitch Starc, David Warner