Cameron Green Returns to Boost Australian XI in West Indies Test Series

In a significant lineup decision, all-rounder Cameron Green is set to feature in the starting XI for the initial Test of the two-match series against West Indies, starting on January 17. Australia has unveiled a 13-player squad for the upcoming series, with Matt Renshaw earning his place and edging out Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft.

The 27-year-old Renshaw, endorsed by David Warner as a potential successor, has secured his position in the Test squad. However, Green’s return to the starting XI has been confirmed by national selection panel chair George Bailey, who emphasized the selection of the best six batters in the country.

“Cameron Green will come into the playing XI for the Test in Adelaide in a squad also containing Scott Boland and Matthew Renshaw. We have selected a team we believe contains the best six batters in the country,” said Bailey.

Smith’s move to the top of the order for the first time in his 14-year Test career is a notable development. Green is expected to bat at No. 4, a position where he has excelled in domestic First-Class cricket.

The Australian squad will see the inclusion of Scott Boland and Matt Renshaw, who will join the team before the first Test after participating in the BBL for Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat on January 15 and 13, respectively.

In the ODI series against West Indies commencing on February 2, Steven Smith will reclaim the captaincy, with Travis Head serving as his deputy. Uncapped fast bowler Lance Morris finds a place in the 13-man squad, joining the returning Aaron Hardie, Matt Short, Jhye Richardson, and Nathan Ellis.

Notably, Test captain Pat Cummins, pace bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh have been rested from the ODI series. Marcus Stoinis, a World Cup squad member, is not included.

“The squad strikes a balance between players continuing to make their mark on international cricket, playing alongside some of our most experienced players with an eye to the future in this format,” commented Bailey.

–IANS