The return of Pat Cummins to the Australian cricket team has been met with excitement as the hosts announced their playing XI for the first Test against South Africa at the Gabba on Saturday. The fast bowler, who has recovered from a quad injury, will take back the captaincy from Steve Smith, who led the side in Cummins' absence during the second Test against the West Indies.
Unfortunately, Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out with a side strain, so Scott Boland retains his place in the team. Michael Neser, on the other hand, makes way for the return of the Australian captain. The batting order remains unchanged, with Usman Khawaja and David Warner opening the innings, followed by Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. Travis Head and Cameron Green will play at No.5 and No.6, and wicket-keeper Alex Carey keeps his spot.
Early reports suggest that the pitch in Brisbane will be suitable for both teams' pace attacks, with Cummins saying, "A couple of the boys said it's similar to what they've seen here in the past. It looks like there's a bit of grass. So we'll see how it looks tomorrow." He added, "They'll give it a final cut. It always looks pretty green here a couple of days out, then on the morning of day one it looks a bit different."
Despite the promising conditions, South Africa has a difficult history at the Gabba, having failed to win in four attempts in the longest format. However, both teams will be keen to secure a victory as the Test series is part of the World Test Championship. Australia currently leads the standings with 75 percent of possible points, while South Africa sits in second place with 60 percent. The match is sure to be a closely contested and exciting one as both teams aim to climb up the rankings.
Australia XI: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland