Ashes 2021-22: Scott Boland Named In Australia's Squad For Boxing-Day Test

Victoria pacer Scott Boland has received a callup to the Australian squad for the third Test of the Ashes series scheduled to be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30.

Seasoned pacer Josh Hazlewood’s participation remains doubtful as of now and is yet to recover fully from his side-strain. If he does recover, he could be slotted into Mitchell Starc’s place as the latter might need to manage his workload.

“Boland has been training with the team in Adelaide and joins the squad while the medical team assesses the fast bowling group following the second Test victory,” a release from Cricket Australia stated on December 21, Tuesday.

Boland has thoroughly impressed in the Sheffield Shield. He has taken 15 wickets in just two games against New South Wales, at an astounding average of 10. He could well be making his debut at his home ground, the MCG.

Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Swepson continue to be the only spin options for the Aussies as they are heavily reliant on their pacers to do most of the work. The ploy has worked for them so far as Jhye Richardson and debutant, Michael Neser, looked threatening during most of their spells at the Adelaide Oval.

Regular Test skipper, Pat Cummins, is also likely to make a comeback after having to sit out of the second Test. Cummins was in the same restaurant as a covid-positive person and he was asked to isolate for a period of ten days.

Australia’s squad for the MCG Test:

Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith (vc), Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner, Scott Boland.

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