![Australia confirm playing XI for MCG Test [Source: AP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1735094668404_AUS_XI_MCG.jpg?type=mq)
Australia confirm playing XI for MCG Test [Source: AP]
In a significant development, Australia have announced their playing XI for the much-awaited Boxing Day Test against India at Melbourne Cricket Ground. The hosts have made two changes, replacing Nathan McSweeney and Josh Hazlewood with Sam Konstas and Scott Boland, respectively.
Travis Head Declared Fit For Boxing Day Test
Australia's swashbuckling middle-order batter Travis Head suffered a groin injury during the third Test of the series in Brisbane. On Tuesday, Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald stated that a final call on the southpaw's participation in the MCG Test would be taken after a series of fitness tests.
Fortunately, for Australia, the batter has cleared all tests and is all set to feature in the all-important encounter at MCG. Travis Head has been India's nemesis in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring 409 runs at an outstanding average of 81.80.
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Homeboy Scott Boland Replaces Injured Hazlewood
However, Australia will miss veteran pacer Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out of the tour due to calf strain. Scott Boland, who played the pink ball Test in Adelaide, has replaced the experienced fast bowler.
Boland has been a ruthless force with the ball at his home ground MCG, scalping ten wickets in two matches at a stunning strike rate of 27.60.
The rest of the Australian XI remains unchanged, with Khawaja, Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Mitch Marsh and Alex Carey forming their batting lineup. Skipper Pat Cummins is all set to lead the pace attack with Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland.
Australia's Playing XI For Boxing Day Test vs India
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
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