Uncapped off-spinner Todd Murphy received his first Test call as Australia named four front-line spin options in an 18-man squad for the upcoming Test series in India.
Mitchell Stark is there but will miss at least the first game of a four-game series that starts in Nagpur on February 9. The South have ruled Africa out of the recently completed series in Sydney. All-rounder Cameron Green’s participation depends on his recovery from a broken finger.
Nagpur pacemaker Lance Morris also maintains his place in the squad and could be in contention for his Nagpur debut in Stark’s absence. Scott Vohland, who missed the South Africa game in Sydney, is another option for the squad. Selectors chairman George Bailey said six pacers and four front-line spin options (Nathan Lyon, recalled Mitchell Swepson, Ashton Agher and Murphy) will be available for visitors in a variety of Indian conditions. He said that he would guarantee to have all the bases of the
“Ashton Agger has been impressive after his return in Sydney and we think turning his left arm will play an important role in the situation in India.
“Mitchell Swepson has real-world testing experience on the subcontinent and offers versatility to point your feet at.
“Todd Murphy has been impressive in domestic cricket before most recently at Australia A. With these performances, Todd has emerged as a strong spin option. “Having been selected for this squad will provide another opportunity to spend time in India with Nathan Lyon and assistant coach Daniel Vettori, which will be invaluable in his development,” he said. said.
Meanwhile, Peter Handscomb, who was recalled to the Australian test squad ahead of the rain-affected SCG game, maintained his place in the squad, with Matt Reneshaw’s 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 season held for Marcus Harris while Marcus Harris was sidelined. Join batting support. Handscomb last tested in Australia in 2019.
“Peter Hanscomb is back on the team,” Bailey said. “His domestic form has been strong lately and Pete has shown he can perform at Test level. “His experience with spins on the subcontinent is invaluable and he’s also a near-wicket catcher.”
Bailey also said that with his week off between the second and his third Test, Australia would have time to make the necessary adjustments to the team.
Australia squad for India Tests: Pat Cummins (C), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (VC), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner