Australia Finalise Darwin Test XI as Hazlewood Returns

Australia have named a solid line-up for the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, with Josh Hazlewood returning to the squad and the country’s top three pace bowlers back together. Australia’s return to Test cricket after a long sabbatical will be marked with the first Test, commencing on August 13 at Marrara Stadium, and it is the first time these two nations have faced each other in a Test in Australia since 2003.

Hazlewood returns to Australia Test attack

One of the major talking points around Australia’s selection is that of Josh Hazlewood’s comeback. The veteran fast bowler has missed a lot of Test cricket with physical problems but his fitness has enabled skipper Pat Cummins and the selectors to put him right back into the starting XI. Hazlewood will link up with Cummins and Mitchell Starc to provide Australia a veteran pace assault for the Darwin conditions.

Following the selection, Scott Boland misses out despite his outstanding results throughout the previous Australian summer. Boland featured in all five Tests on Australia’s Ashes campaign and was a crucial member, making his removal all the more heartbreaking. Cummins said the selection between Hazlewood and Boland was quite tight but Australia opted for the balance of Hazlewood coming back in with Lyon.

Australia’s Playing XI Confirmed

The Australian side has experience across the batting order and a well balanced attack. Jake Weatherald and Travis Head will begin while Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will provide solidity in the top and middle order. Cameron Green has been promoted to No.5, with wicket keeper Alex Carey and all-rounder Beau Webster following.

New Test For Darwin

The Darwin Test is a unique task for both sides. Australia have had little recent first-class experience at the ground with last year’s Australia A match against Sri Lanka A giving some valuable pointers. The surface was described as favorable for batting and the spinners were able to keep a tight rein by precise bowling.

That volatility means Australia cannot depend only on past Test records or traditional home circumstances. The squad will need to adjust rapidly to the field, the weather and the tropical conditions. Bangladesh will look to their experienced spin options, however, to utilize any help on offer from the surface.

The match also matters since it brings Test cricket back to Darwin after a long time away. The first Test will be at Marrara Stadium from August 13-17 with the second to be played in Mackay from August 22-26.

Australia Sends a Clear Message

Australia’s selection of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon is a strong statement of intent for the Bangladesh series. Instead of seeing the first Test as a chance to experiment substantially, the hosts have opted for an experienced combination that can put pressure straight away.

The return of Hazlewood is especially vital as Australia face a tough Test schedule. Cricket Australia has recognized that the side may play as many as 21 Tests over the next 12 months, meaning squad depth and fatigue management is becoming a bigger priority. So Boland’s exclusion shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a long-term setback, with plenty of cricket yet to play.

Bangladesh will have their work cut out against an Australian assault that has speed, experience and spin. The visitors will have to contend with the new-ball danger of Starc and Hazlewood, as well as the consistency of Cummins and the control of Lyon.

What to Expect from the Darwin Test

The inaugural Test might provide an early insight into how Australia’s established players cope following their various sabbatical. Hazlewood’s workload will be carefully managed, with Lyon’s return providing another element to the bowling assault.

Australia’s batting will also come under the microscope. Weatherald has a good chance to bat at the top, while Labuschagne and Smith will be relied on for solidity. The change to No.5 might be crucial for Green if Australia are to recover after losing early wickets.

Australia, with a potent attack, deep batting order and many of all-round alternatives, seem well set for the series opener. Bangladesh have enough experience to take on the hosts provided they can settle into the new environment and make the most of their chances.

The Darwin Test is shaping up to be more than another routine home game for Australia. It heralds the start of a tough Test season, the return of several important players and a chance to build early momentum in a busy international schedule.

Conclusion

Australia have chosen for experience and proven quality as they prepare to take on Bangladesh in Darwin. The return of Josh Hazlewood adds to a potent pace attack and Nathan Lyon’s return will help to even the bowling unit. The elevation of Cameron Green and the retention of Beau Webster are other examples of Australia’s aim to have depth throughout the XI.

The first Test begins on August 13 and now the focus will be on whether Australia’s formidable combination can produce on the field. Bangladesh may have their own ideas but Australia’s pick shows the hosts want to hit the ground running in the series.

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