NEW DELHI: Veteran opener David Warner has secured his position in Australia's Test squad for the first match against Pakistan, despite recent queries regarding his Test form.
The 37-year-old, known for his outstanding white-ball performance at the World Cup, has faced criticism for scoring just one century since early 2020 and maintaining an average of 28 since the 2019-2020 season.
Chairman of selectors defends Warner's inclusion
"This group, led by Pat Cummins, has built a strong resume. We believe they have earned the opportunity to start in our first home Test match at the beginning of the new World Test Championship cycle," chairman of selectors George Bailey said.
However, Bailey acknowledged the ongoing competition for Warner's opening slot, noting, "There will be opportunities in the short- to medium-term to break into this squad."
Warner's young challengers: Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, and Matt Renshaw are set to audition in the Prime Minister's XI against Pakistan in a four-day red-ball warm-up in Canberra.
Farewell series for Warner
Warner, hinting at retirement from the five-day format after the Sydney Test, affirmed his commitment to white-ball cricket. The three-Test series against Pakistan begins in Perth on December 14, followed by matches at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Sydney.
Record-chaser Lyon, Marsh in the squad
The squad for the Perth Test sees minimal changes, with spinner Nathan Lyon expected to return in place of Todd Murphy.Lyon, on the verge of joining the elite 500-wicket club, will join the formidable pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood.Selectors have included all-rounders Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green in the 14-man squad, with Marsh taking precedence.
Bailey expressed optimism, stating, "We look forward to seeing the continued strong performances from players who have been performing domestically."
The upcoming Prime Minister's XI fixture against Pakistan is considered a crucial opportunity for aspiring talents to showcase their skills and potentially break into the national squad.
Australia squad for first Test, beginning December 14 in Perth:
David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Cameron Green, Lance Morris.
(With inputs from AFP)
