Steve Smith to Captain Australia in Test Series Against Sri Lanka; McSweeney Returns to Squad - PRESS AI WORLD
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Steve Smith to Captain Australia in Test Series Against Sri Lanka; McSweeney Returns to Squad

share-iconThursday, January 09 comment-icon1 week ago 11 views
News sources:
apnewsAPNEWS bbcBBC
Steve Smith to Captain Australia in Test Series Against Sri Lanka; McSweeney Returns to Squad

Credited from: APNEWS

Ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, Australia has announced a revised squad, featuring the return of Nathan McSweeney and the leadership of Steve Smith, who steps in as captain during Pat Cummins' paternity leave. Recently, Smith, who previously served a suspension from captaincy due to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, will be guiding the team with Cummins away for the birth of his second child (BBC).

McSweeney, 25, rejoins the Test squad after being dropped during the recent series against India. In his first three Tests, he managed only 72 runs at an average of 14.4. Despite this, he has been enjoying a robust domestic season with South Australia, averaging 97 in first-class matches. The selectors hope his proven ability with the bat can provide Middle-Order stability, particularly as they visit spin-friendly Galle International Stadium, where the first Test begins on January 29 (AP News).

The selection committee has notably focused on including spinners, driven by expectations of challenging playing conditions in Sri Lanka. Among those called up is 21-year-old Cooper Connolly, marking his first Test inclusion alongside established spinners Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann, and Todd Murphy. Notably, the bowling attack will also feature seamers Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc (BBC).

Selectors had to make several adjustments due to injuries, with pacer Josh Hazlewood sidelined as he recovers from a calf issue. Additionally, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been omitted following a disappointing performance in the recent series against India. The full squad includes some promising talent and seasoned players to tackle the dynamic conditions expected in Sri Lanka.

During the recent series against India, which Australia won 3-1, they solidified their position for the upcoming World Test Championship final against South Africa in June. This series against Sri Lanka will be crucial for the team's momentum and depth as they seek to establish their dominance on foreign pitches.

For the full squad, see below:

  • Steve Smith (captain)
  • Sean Abbott
  • Scott Boland
  • Alex Carey
  • Cooper Connolly
  • Travis Head
  • Josh Inglis
  • Usman Khawaja
  • Sam Konstas
  • Matthew Kuhnemann
  • Marnus Labuschagne
  • Nathan Lyon
  • Nathan McSweeney
  • Todd Murphy
  • Mitchell Starc
  • Beau Webster

Fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await this exciting tour, showcasing Australia's depth and adaptability in the face of international challenges.

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