Dbarta24 Sports Desk — Australia have announced their playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, marking the highly anticipated reunion of their formidable pace trio—Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood—in Test cricket after more than a year.
The decision to field all three premier fast bowlers alongside pace-bowling all-rounder Cameron Green means experienced seamer Scott Boland misses out on a spot in the XI for the series opener set to begin on Thursday.
Reunion of Australia’s Pace Trio & Spin Setup
The Darwin Test brings Australia’s lethal pacemen back together on the pitch after a prolonged hiatus. Complementing the pace attack is seasoned off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who makes his return to the Test side after recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the final two Tests of the recent Ashes series.
Lyon steps in as the sole specialist spinner in the lineup. However, Australia possess plenty of option versatility, with part-time spin options available in Travis Head and Beau Webster if conditions call for extra slow bowling support.
Batting Lineup and Playing XI Structure
At the top of the order, Travis Head will open the batting alongside Jake Weatherald. The core middle order remains formidable, anchored by world-class batters Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne at positions three and four.
Wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey takes up the gloves and will feature in the lower-middle order, followed by all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster to provide depth in both departments.
While Australia disclosed their final XI ahead of match day, Bangladesh are yet to announce their official lineup for the opening encounter.
Australia Playing XI for 1st Test:
Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.