Australia makes key changes to its batting order for the first Test against Sri Lanka. Josh Inglis earns a Test debut at number five, replacing Sam Konstas, while Travis Head moves up the order to open the batting.
Josh Inglis is poised for his Test debut as Australia prepares for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The selection signals a shift in the batting lineup, with Sam Konstas set to be dropped. Stand-in captain Steve Smith revealed the day before play that Travis Head will be promoted to the top of the order. This move comes after Head's success as an opener during Australia's previous subcontinental tour in 2023, where he averaged an impressive 55.75.
Konstas, a young and promising batsman, had made a strong impression in his first two Tests, contributing to Australia's historic series victory over India. He was also favored by Ricky Ponting to retain his opening spot alongside Usman Khawaja. Head's elevation to the top order creates a vacancy at number five, which is expected to be filled by Inglis. He will be a specialist batsman, moving away from his role as backup wicketkeeper to Alex Carey. Inglis boasts 55 white-ball appearances for Australia and is considered a stronger contender for the middle-order position compared to Nathan McSweeney. McSweeney had been vying for a recall after featuring in three Tests this summer, albeit out of position as an opener. Inglis's experience on Asian wickets, particularly his contribution to Australia's 2023 World Cup victory in India, makes him a valuable asset. He is expected to bring a similar aggressive style to Head in the middle order.Australia will finalize their bowling lineup based on the pitch conditions on the day of the toss. Nathan Lyon and the recently fit left-armer Matthew Kuhnemann are likely to be selected as the frontline spinners. The battle for the remaining spot is between SCG pace hero Scott Boland and offspinner Todd Murphy. The first Test commences at 3.30pm AEDT on Wednesday
AUSTRALIA SRI LANKA TEST CRICKET JOSH INGLIS SAM KONSTAS TRAVIS HEAD SELECTİON
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