SYDNEY: On Thursday, a formidable Australian team for a warm-up clash against Pakistan was announced, featuring Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, and Matt Renshaw vying for the coveted position left vacant by the retiring David Warner.
This Prime Minister’s XI comprises six players with Test experience, geared up for a red-ball encounter in Canberra next month, setting the stage for the Australian summer.
The impending Test series against Pakistan, starting in December, will witness three Tests in Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney, with Warner bowing out from the longer format thereafter. This move opens up an opportunity for someone to partner Usman Khawaja in the following Tests against the West Indies in mid-January.
Alongside these developments, all-rounder Cameron Green makes a comeback bid for his Test spot after a spell out of favor in all formats. George Bailey, chairman of selectors, highlighted the significance of rewarding consistent performers from the domestic circuit against top-tier international opposition. This strategic match aims to fortify Australia’s red-ball squad, essential for the upcoming heavy Test cricket schedule this summer.
Here’s the PM’s XI lineup:
- Nathan McSweeney (capt)
- Cameron Bancroft
- Cameron Green
- Marcus Harris
- Nathan McAndrew
- Todd Murphy
- Michael Neser
- Jimmy Peirson
- Matthew Renshaw
- Mark Steketee
- Beau Webster
