Australia hand debut to Marcus Harris: Australia have announced their playing XI ahead of first Test against India tomorrow.

Australia have handed Victoria opening batsman Marcus Harris a Test debut ahead of the first Test of the four-match much-awaited Test series against India at Adelaide. The 26-year old southpaw has earned his place in the side on the back of consistent performances over the years and in the recent times.

The development means that Australia will open the batting with Harris and Aaron Finch in the first Test. While they had the option of sending in Usman Khawaja alongside Finch and play an extra batsman in the middle-order, Australia decided against it.

As a result, vice-captain and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been dropped from the playing XI. Peter Handscomb, who last played for Australia during the tour of South Africa earlier this year, has been given a comeback.

While Handscomb’s presence in the middle order bolster Australia batting line-up, it has come at the cost of Mitchell Marsh’s bowling. Travis Head, who will bat at No. 6, might play an enhanced role with his off-spin likely to come into play.

Australia have named a predicted bowling line-up comprising of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon. At their full strength, the attack has it in it to dominate the Indian batsmen, who have hitherto struggle to cope up in foreign conditions.

Australia’s playing XI for first Test against India

 

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