Australia’s Test selectors are contemplating deploying Western Australia fast bowler Lance Morris against Pakistan as Mitchell Starc nurses a minor injury ahead of the first Test.
As per Sydney Morning Herald, the announcement of a 14-player squad is expected on December 3. Mitchell Marsh is set to maintain the all-rounder role, edging out Cameron Green.
The only alteration to the XI from Australia’s previous Test in July at the Oval will be Nathan Lyon’s return in place of his understudy, Todd Murphy.
Morris, nicknamed “Wild Thing” for his express pace, might either be named in the extended squad or provided a special training role before the first Test against Pakistan, starting on December 14 in Perth.
Starc is dealing with a minor issue, which shouldn’t impede his start in the Test summer. However, concerns arise regarding his fitness for the third Test due to the tight schedule between the Boxing Day Test and the Sydney Test.
Morris, 25, has been on a tailored recovery program since last season due to stress fractures in his back. The selectors want him prepared if an opportunity arises against Pakistan or the West Indies this season and have an eye on the future series against India.
Capable of bowling at 150km/h, Morris is seen as a direct replacement for Starc’s aggressive style.
He would have been part of the Ashes tour if fully fit and has been gradually eased back into the Sheffield Shield games for Western Australia, claiming 11 wickets across three matches.
Although Bancroft's Test performances have been modest, Marsh retains his place after an impressive showing in the Ashes series. However, concerns linger about his bowling impact compared to his batting.
Green, despite a moderate performance in the Ashes, remains a crucial part of Australia’s future plans. His recent strong innings in the Shield game highlighted his quality, prompting selectors to find a spot for him in the lineup.
While Josh Inglis solidifies his place as Australia’s white-ball wicketkeeper, Alex Carey remains the Test gloveman and showcased his red-ball form with a solid innings for South Australia in a recent Shield match.
Probable Australian squad for the first Test against Pakistan in Perth, starting December 14: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Cameron Green, Lance Morris.
- Mitchell Starc
