Aaron Finch | Australia vs India 2018 | Darren Lehmann |
Aaron Finch. Credit: Getty Images

Australia Cricket team skipper Tim Paine said that they would look at the pitch for one final time before finalising the playing XI for the final Test against Indian National Cricket team starting from January 3 (Thursday).

Meanwhile, Australia flew in Marnus Labuschagne following their 137-run defeat at Melbourne. However, Paine said that his inclusion would depend on the condition and team balance.

It’s just team balance really,” Paine told reporters. “There’s ongoing discussion the last day or two but we’ll have a final look at the wicket (this afternoon) and we’ll have our last chat then. We’re not too far away. As I said all along, we’ll be looking to pick the best XI that we think is the best combination to win this Test and the wicket will play a part in that,” he added.

Australia vs India 2018, Virat Kohli, Tim Paine
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In addition to, Tim Paine said Australia was looking to strike a balance between picking an XI that would contend to win the fourth Test and batting players in the positions they would fill in future series, once the bans for Steve Smith and David Warner had expired. As a result, Aaron Finch can slip down the order to retain his place in the side.

Uzzie’s opening record in Test cricket is very good,” Paine said. “He’s been on record a few times saying he’s not too fussed where he bats.

If that’s the way we go, Usman will go out and give his all as he always does. I think the way he’s handled the last month or so has been exemplary, it’s a real credit to him,” he continues.

Peter Handscomb | Australia vs India 2018 |
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Peter Handscomb likely to return

Peter Handscomb could find himself back in the Test team having been dropped for the third Test in Melbourne, with Australia wary of India playing two spinners.

If we think India were to play two spinners Pete could be a really important player for us,” Paine said. “We know how good a player of spin he is. That’s one of the discussions we’ll be having today, if we think India will go that way and if they are, are we prepared to bring him back in. I’m sure if he does (play), he’s an excellent player of spin and contributes a lot to the group in the field and around the team,” he concluded.

 

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