December 5, 2024: Ahead of the much-anticipated second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India in Adelaide, Australia captain Pat Cummins praised pacer Scott Boland for his “super consistent” performances, highlighting his readiness to step into the side after a lengthy absence from international cricket.
On Thursday, Australia announced the playing XI for the Adelaide Test, with Boland replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, who was sidelined after suffering an injury during the first Test in Perth. This will be Boland’s first Test match for Australia in 18 months, with his last appearance being during the Ashes 2023 series.
Cummins spoke highly of Boland’s preparations, particularly his performance in the two-day warm-up match against India in Canberra. While Boland didn’t take any wickets in the warm-up, he bowled economically, conceding just 36 runs in his 10-over spell, which demonstrated his ability to maintain pressure even without picking up wickets.
Cummins acknowledged that Boland’s “preparations have been really good,” and he’s been working on his rhythm. “He had a couple of good little hits out in Canberra a couple of days ago, and his rhythm is looking good. But as a captain, it’s pretty awesome for someone like Scotty to come straight in,” said Cummins. The captain also emphasized Boland’s ability to bowl long spells if required, his consistency, and his previous experience at the highest level. “You know he can bowl huge amounts of overs if you need, super consistent, and performed at this level,” Cummins added. “So he looks ready to go.”
Boland’s last Test appearance was in the Ashes series against England in 2023. His consistency, despite not taking wickets in the warm-up match, makes him a reliable option for Australia’s attack. He has proven his worth in Test cricket, especially in the home series against England, where his disciplined bowling was a key part of Australia’s victory.
With Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injury, Boland’s inclusion in the playing XI ensures that Australia’s pace attack retains its strength for the Adelaide Day-Night Test, which begins on December 6.
The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, played in Perth, saw India pull off a stunning 295-run victory despite a dramatic collapse by Australia, which was bowled out for just 150 in their first innings. Australia will be looking to bounce back in the Adelaide Test, which promises to offer challenging conditions for both teams, with the pink ball adding an extra layer of complexity.
Australia’s Playing XI for the Second Test:
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitch Marsh
- Alex Carey (WK)
- Pat Cummins (C)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Scott Boland
As the Adelaide Test approaches, Boland’s experience, consistency, and ability to adapt to different conditions could be pivotal in helping Australia mount a strong response to India’s dominant performance in the first Test.
