Travis Head Fit for Boxing Day Test; Konstas to Debut, Boland Returns to Strengthen Australia’s XI
Travis Head has been declared fit and ready for action ahead of Australia’s highly anticipated Boxing Day Test against India at the MCG. On the eve of the match, captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Head had passed his fitness tests following a minor quad strain, which had initially raised concerns after the Brisbane Test. Head is set to return to the playing XI for the crucial fourth match of the five-match series, currently tied at 1-1.
"Trav's good to go, he'll play," said Cummins. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He’ll go into the game fully fit." Cummins also praised Head’s exceptional form, acknowledging his vital role at the top of the order. "He’s hitting the ball really cleanly and putting pressure on the opposition from the first ball. I'm loving that he's in our team and I don't have to bowl to him!"
Head’s return isn’t the only change to Australia’s lineup. The hosts have handed 19-year-old Sam Konstas his Test debut, making him Australia’s youngest-ever Test opener. Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney, who struggled for runs and was dropped after the second Test. The young opener’s selection is a bold decision, but Cummins is confident that his youthful energy will work in his favour. "Just go out and play like you do when you're a kid... don’t overthink it," he said. "Once the game starts, it’s just like any other game."
Additionally, Scott Boland is back in the team for the first time since the second Test in Adelaide, replacing Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out with a calf injury. Boland, a local hero at the MCG, has a strong record at the venue, and Cummins believes he will bring his usual consistency and skill to the attack. "Whenever he gets his chance, he steps in and looks like one of the best bowlers in the world," Cummins added. "He's prepared really well and loves bowling here."
With Head fit, Konstas making his debut, and Boland returning, Australia’s lineup is full of promise for the Boxing Day Test. The team is eager to continue their strong performance after the first three Tests and are determined to take control of the series, which is poised at 1-1.
Australia’s full XI for the Boxing Day Test: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
With a powerful lineup and high expectations, the Boxing Day Test promises to be a thrilling contest at the MCG, as Australia looks to take the lead in this exciting series.
