AUS vs Bangladesh Test: Australia Unveils XI as Hazlewood Edges Boland

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DARWIN — Australia’s playing XI for the upcoming AUS vs Bangladesh Test has been finalized, with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood earning selection ahead of Scott Boland for the opening match.

The decision reunites Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc in the pace attack for the first time in over a year. Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon also returns to the side after recovering from the hamstring injury that curtailed his Ashes campaign.

The opening fixture marks the return of Test cricket to Darwin’s TIO Stadium for the first time in more than two decades.

Cummins Explains Selection Decisions and Squad Balance

Australian captain Pat Cummins described the selection duel between Hazlewood and Boland as an extremely tight call. Hazlewood had been sidelined from international action since October due to injury.

While Boland misses out alongside wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, Cummins stressed that rotation will play a major role throughout Australia’s busy international calendar.

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Confirmed Lineups and Match Schedule

Cameron Green and Beau Webster reinforce the middle order, with Alex Carey taking the gloves at No. 6. At the top, Jake Weatherald continues his opening partnership with Travis Head.

Australia Confirmed XI

• Openers: Jake Weatherald, Travis Head

• Top/Middle Order: Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Cameron Green

• Wicketkeeper & All-rounders: Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster

• Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood