AUS vs SA: Josh Hazlewood Absent as Australia Announce 14-Member Squad For First Test Against South Africa
Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the series due to injury.
Australia is set to lock horns with South Africa in a top of the World Test Championship clash with the three-Test match series getting underway at the Gabba on December 17.
Cricket Australia have named a 14-member squad for the Test series opener against Proteas. The hosts will miss the services of their star pacer, Josh Hazlewood as he is yet to recover from the side strain he suffered in the first Test against West Indies last week.
As a replacement, uncapped seamer Lance Morris has been added to the squad. Pat Cummins, who missed the second Test against West Indies has returned to the team. It will be intriguing to see who among Scott Boland and Michael Neser will leave out to make a place for the captain in the Playing XI.
“Pat continues to improve, bowled with freedom on Saturday, and appears likely to play this match although Josh will need more time,” Cricket Australia’s chairman of selectors George Bailey said.
“With that in mind, we have retained Michael Neser and Lance Morris in the squad for this match,” added Bailey.
“Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott. We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past. Lance is a very exciting prospect who will benefit from time with the squad.”
“With so much cricket ahead, we continue to seek opportunities to grow and maintain our fast-bowling experience and depth.”
Australia Squad Against South Africa For Opening Test:
Pat Cummins (C), David Warner, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc.
