Australia will be without a key bowler for the first test against South Africa in Brisbane, as selectors revealed a 14-man squad for the opening game of the series against Proteas.
Veteran pacer Josh Hazlewood is still battling a lateral strain and has been ruled out of Saturday’s clash at The Gabba, though the selectors are hopeful skipper Pat Cummins will shake off his quad problem and move into fit.
Hazlewood and Cummins missed Australia’s comprehensive 419-run win over the West Indies in Adelaide, with teammates Scott Boland and Michael Neser performing well in their absence.
While Hazlewood is still struggling to recover from his flank injury, Cummins is close to making a comeback, according to chief selector George Bailey.
“Pat continues to improve, he played freely on Saturday and looks likely to play this game, although Josh will need more time,” Bailey said.
“With that in mind, we have retained Michael Neser and Lance Morris in the squad for this game.
“Michael played superbly in Adelaide, as was Scott. We were impressed as always with his performances which backed up what they have achieved in the past. Lance is a very exciting prospect who will benefit from time with the team.”
“With so much cricket ahead of us, we continue to look for opportunities to grow and maintain our experience and depth in fast bowling.”
The three-game series against South Africa is shaping up to be crucial for both teams in their quest for a place in next year’s ICC World Test Championship final at The Oval.
Australia’s emphatic 2-0 series sweep of the West Indies saw them increase their lead at the top of the World Test Championship standings, while South Africa remain in second place.
South Africa’s tour of Australia will be shown, which also includes three ODIs. LIVE on ICC.tv (in selected regions).
Australia team for the first test against South Africa: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner
