IND vs AUS: The Aussies, who also look to dominate under their home conditions, did bounce back well after their initial defeat in the first game at Perth.
However, considering their chances in the WTC, the defending champions of the World Test Championship are seeking newer players to strengthen further their squad for the remaining two matches for the BGT.
While Nathan McSweeney, a youngster, has been replaced by another youngster, Sam Konstas, for the Boxing Day test, the likes of pacer Jhye Richardson make his long-awaited return to the Australian test side, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood.
The new Australia squad looks very engaging: Pat Cummins (captain), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, and Beau Webster.
Let’s take a look at the predicted strongest playing XI for Australia:
Opening: Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja
Middle-Order Batters: Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, and Travis Head
All-Rounders: Beau Webster
Wicket-Keeper: Alex Carey
Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins [C], Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon