Veteran pacer Scott Boland is set to lead the Prime Minister’s XI bowling attack in a two-day pink-ball match against India. The match will take place at Manuka Oval, Canberra, starting November 30.
This warm-up game holds significance for both teams as they prepare for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide. The Adelaide Test will also be a day-night affair, making this practice match crucial.
Boland, already part of Australia’s Test squad, aims to maintain his match fitness and push for a spot in the playing XI for the Adelaide Test. Michael Neser’s hamstring injury further strengthens Boland’s chances. A strong performance in this match could solidify his position as the preferred choice for the pink-ball contest, should any of the frontline pacers face setbacks.
The Prime Minister’s XI, with input from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, showcases a blend of promising youngsters and seasoned campaigners. Jack Edwards will captain the side, which features Under-19 World Cup winners Sam Konsas, Mahli Beardman, Charlie Anderson, and Aidan O'Connor. Emerging middle-order batter Ollie Davies adds to the youthful exuberance of the squad.
The team also sees the return of former Test opener Matthew Renshaw. This match presents him with a valuable opportunity to impress the selectors after missing recent Australia A matches.
For India, the match offers crucial preparation for their first pink-ball Test in nearly three years. This game is expected to mark the return of India captain Rohit Sharma, who missed the series opener in Perth due to the birth of his second child.
Prime Minister's XI squad: Jack Edwards (c), Charlie Anderson, Mahli Beardman, Scott Boland, Jack Clayton, Aidan O'Connor, Ollie Davies, Jayden Goodwin, Sam Harper, Hanno Jacobs, Sam Konstas, Lloyd Pope, Matthew Renshaw, Jem Ryan
PM's XI vs India: Nov 30-Dec 1 at Manuka Oval
