Australia has confirmed left-handed explosive batsman Travis Head in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against India. The clouds of doubt over his participation have cleared as captain Pat Cummins assured that Head is fully fit and ready for the match.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy’s fourth Test will kick off on Thursday in Melbourne, and the hosts announced their squad a day prior. Nathan McSweeney has been replaced by Sam Constas, who is set to make his debut as the fourth-youngest Australian opener in Test history.
Another expected change sees Scott Boland returning to the XI in place of Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out due to an injury sustained during the Brisbane Test.
Head had raised some concerns after experiencing a minor strain during Australia’s second innings in Brisbane, which prevented him from taking the field later. However, Cummins dispelled any lingering doubts before the upcoming Test.
“Travis is fine; he will play. He’s been working on a few things over the past two days, and there’s no concern regarding his injury. He’s fully fit and ready to go,” said Cummins.
Head, who has been focusing on his fitness since Christmas, was declared match-ready after completing all the necessary recovery steps. Cummins is also confident in Head’s impact, noting his attacking style of play.
“I don’t think you’ll see him holding back too much during the match—that’s just not his game. If he feels a bit uncomfortable while fielding, we’ll manage it, but he’s completely fit,” Cummins added.
“Over the past 12 months, he’s been in phenomenal form and continues to play brilliantly. His ability to put pressure on the opposition right from the first ball is exceptional.”
The five-match series is currently tied 1-1, with the rain-affected third Test ending in a draw.
