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Usman Khawaja will replace Travis Head in the Australian midfield order for the fourth round of the Ashes Test against England this week, the only change in the side that completed the Melbourne series last week, skipper Pat Cummins said on Tuesday.
Khawaja was expected to return to his first test since 2019 after Head ruled out positive COVID-19 tests, but it was amazing to keep pace with Scott Boland.
Boland was considered a Melbourne specialist when he made his debut in the third round, but the 32-year-old took advantage of his chance with both hands.
He beat Australia six times in the second inning in a stunning inning and secured a 14-run victory and allowed him to maintain his place in favor of Josh Hazlewood, who is still suffering from the side strain he endured in the first test.
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“It’s no secret that if Joshy Hazlewood had been available, he would have played.
“It would be really embarrassing for Scotty not to play this week after last week’s effort. It’s unfortunate for Joshy, but I’m very happy that (Scott) gets another crack.”
Cummins said Hazlewood would be fit to play in the fifth round, which will be held in Hobart from January 14-18.
There were suggestions in the local media that Mitchell Swepson could give his first test cap to Nathan Lyon in two slow bowling attacks.
Cummins, however, said he did not expect the SCG wicket to deteriorate enough to make that strategy viable.
“I don’t think he’s promised a two-round tour of any place I’ve played in Australia in the last two years,” he added.
“He’s a classy pelota player and we’re itching to get on the sidelines one day. We think he’ll make his debut at some stage, probably overseas.”
Australia leads the series 3-0 after winning in Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne.
| Team: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland. |
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