Australia likely to go in with four pacers against India at the Oval | WTC Final 2023
Xtra Time Web Desk: Australia in all probability is likely to go in with four pacers against India in the ICC World Test Championships final which will be played at the Oval from June 7. All eyes were on Victorian fast bowler Scott Boland who is all set to replace injured Josh Hazzlewood. Boland was seen having an extended bowling session in the nets during Australia’s first training session at the Oval on Monday.
Australian captain Pat Cummins had a long chat with Boland before the duo started bowling in tandem at the nets. Australian vice-captain Steve Smith was the first to walk into the nets along with Marnus Labuschagne. Smith looked in some trouble as he was beaten quite a few times by Boland. David Warner, who announced that he might retire from all formats by next year batted in the adjacent nets with Usman Khawaja also having a knock at the other net. The Australian top order might look like Warner, Khawaja, Labuschagne, Smith and Head until there are any last-minute changes. Cameron Green, who rolled his arms for a short while will play as an all-rounder.
As far as the bowling attack is concerned, it looks like the Aussies might go in with four prong pace attack with Cummins and Starc leading the attack along with Boland. Green will be the fourth pacer. Nathan Lyon likely will be the fourth spinner.
Meanwhile Australia has drafted in former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower as the batting consultant. The Lucknow Super Giants coach was seen reading the wickets along with Pat Cummins and Labuschagne. The 22 yards at the Oval looks flat with very little grass on it. The weather at the Oval during Australia’s practice session was very chilly with temperatures as low as 10 degrees.
Pat Cummins and co will look to start the tour to UK on a high by winning the ICC World Test Championship final.
