Mitchell Marsh has been dropped from Australia’s Test squad, while Glenn Maxwell’s hopes of making a Test return have been dashed after failing to secure a spot.
Adapting to the conditions, Australia has included four spinners in their squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series. While pace bowling played a crucial role in their recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory, spin is expected to dominate in Sri Lankan conditions. Nathan Lyon will lead the spin attack, supported by left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, off-spinner Todd Murphy, and left-arm spinning all-rounder Cooper Connolly.
As anticipated, skipper Pat Cummins will miss the tour to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. In his absence, Steve Smith will captain the side once again.
One notable inclusion is Nathan McSweeney, who returns to the squad after being dropped following an underwhelming debut in the Border-Gavaskar series. Meanwhile, Mitchell Marsh, Australia’s T20 captain, has been omitted from the squad, raising concerns about his Test career prospects.
Matthew Kuhnemann, who impressed with 9 wickets during his 2023 India tour, returns to the squad after taking 18 wickets in 6 matches in the Sheffield Shield this season. Todd Murphy, who debuted sensationally in India, is also back in the fold, having taken 21 wickets in 6 Tests.
Connolly earns his maiden Test call-up. The 21-year-old spinning all-rounder has already represented Australia in ODIs and T20Is. His inclusion effectively ends Glenn Maxwell’s hopes of a Test comeback in Sri Lanka.
Sam Constance, who showcased an aggressive mindset in the final two matches of the Border-Gavaskar series, retains his place. Josh Inglis, renowned for his ability to play spin well, also makes the cut after being in the previous squad without getting a game.
The 15-member squad features only two specialist pacers—Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland—as Josh Hazlewood is yet to recover from his injury. All-rounder Beau Webster, who impressed with both bat and ball during his debut against India in Sydney, is also part of the touring team.
The two-Test series begins on January 29, with the second match starting on February 6. Both matches will take place in Galle. Before heading to Sri Lanka, the Australian squad will train at a camp in the UAE.
Having secured a 3-1 series win against India, Australia has already booked their spot in the ICC Test Championship final, where they’ll face South Africa at Lord’s in June.
Australia Test Squad:
Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Constance, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
