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Australia's first Test Squad against Pakistan includes uncapped pacer Lance Morris

George Bailey, chairman of the men's selection panel, acknowledged the squad's strong performance in winning the ICC World Test Championship but emphasized that opportunities remain for fringe players in the new WTC cycle of 2023-2025.

By Omar | Dec 3, 2023 | 2 Min Read

Australia has named uncapped fast bowler Lance Morris in their 14-man squad for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan in Perth, starting from December 14. Known as ‘The Wild Thing’ for his aggressive pace, Morris has had an impressive start to his first-class career, claiming 74 wickets in just 22 games at an average of 25.44. The fiery bowler, capable of delivering 150-kmph deliveries effortlessly, has the chance to make his Test debut in front of his home crowd in Western Australia. Returning to the Sheffield Shield after recovering from a back injury, Morris showcased his prowess by taking 11 wickets in three matches. He joins a formidable pace attack alongside Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland.

The squad also features pace-bowling all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, who are likely to compete for a spot in the playing XI. Nathan Lyon, recovering from a calf injury that kept him out of the Ashes series, has been selected as the primary off-spinner. The batting lineup includes predictable inclusions of Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith, with David Warner retaining his crucial spot. Notably, no backup batsman was chosen. Players like Cameron Bancroft, Matt Renshaw, and Marcus Harris, in contention for a spot in the team, will have an opportunity to audition against Pakistan in the Prime Minister’s XI on December 6.

George Bailey, chairman of the men’s selection panel, acknowledged the squad’s strong performance in winning the ICC World Test Championship but emphasized that opportunities remain for fringe players in the new WTC cycle of 2023-2025.

Australia Squad for First Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Lance Morris, Steve Smith, Mitch Starc, David Warner.