Australia will be taking on India in the fourth Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 on the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne’s MCG. It will be a decisive match for both teams in the series. If India wins the match, they will retain the series. Likewise, if Australia wins the match, they will have a good chance of winning the series. They will have to win the test at all costs.
So far in the series, they have had major problems in the batting unit. The Top 3 especially have been very fragile. Neither Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeny, nor Marnus Labuschagne have made an impact with the bat. Hence, one could see a lot of changes in the Australian unit at MCG. They might be forced to make some other changes as well.
Here are the three changes that could take place in the Australian XI for the Boxing Day Test –
3. Beau Webster replacing Mitchell Marsh
Mitchell Marsh has been one of the most underperforming players in the Australian XI this year. Beau Webster might be a like-to-like replacement. He was the leading run scorer in the Sheffield Shield 2023/24. Additionally, he could offer some medium-pace bowling and can also spin the ball. While this is not a likely change, Australia could consider it an option.
2. Scott Boland replacing Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood got injured while bowling in the third Test against India at the Gabba. It ruled him out of the Test and the remainder of the series. Hence, he will be replaced by Scott Boland, who did well in the Pink Ball Test match in Adelaide. Boland has a good record against India and knows the conditions at the MCG well. He could take the new ball as Mitchell Starc’s partner.
1. Sam Konstas replacing Nathan McSweeny
Sam Konstas will surely be playing in Nathan McSweeny’s place. The change was announced by the selectors a few days ago. Konstas did well in the Prime Minister’s XI’s match against India. He has been knocking on the doors of the selectors for a long time. Given the poor performance of McSweeny in the series so far, the 19-year-old might make a grand Test debut.
Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.