Matthew Kuhnemann added to Australia’s squad as Mitchell Swepson’s replacement
Matthew Kuhnemann will join the Australian squad for the second Test in Delhi starting February 17. He is one step closer to making his dream debut for the Aussies. He replaces his Queensland teammate Mitchell Swepson, who will be returning home for the birth of his first child.
Swepson was unable to make a cut in the starting lineup for the first Test in Nagpur. The hosts won by an innings and 132 runs, on just the third day, to take a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. To be with his pregnant fiancée, Jess, Swepson will be immediately taking a flight back to Brisbane.
Several injury woes are now troubling the visiting team. Australia hopes Cameron Green, absent in first Test due to finger injury, is available for Delhi match. If he is included in the starting lineup, the visitors may be able to field a third spinner in addition to Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy.
Matthew Renshaw, who was surprisingly chosen ahead of Travis Head, is also dealing with an issue with his knee, which would make the Australians worry more about Green’s availability. Pat Cummins stated on Saturday, after the conclusion of the first Test, that Mitchell Starc would be joining the team in New Delhi for the upcoming match.
Due to a finger injury, the left-arm quick was out from the first game of the series. Josh Hazlewood won’t be available for the subsequent game too according to the statements made by the Australian skipper. Along with Ashton Agar, Kuhnemman’s inclusion to the team will give the Australians another left-arm spin option. He recently registered 2/55 in 21 overs and 1/67 in 23 overs while competing in the Marsh Sheffield Shield.
Australia aim to bounce back
Australia will be looking for ways to recover in the series after losing the first Test in Nagpur. On a spin-friendly pitch on Saturday, India took advantage of the Australian hitters’ dread of spin to bowl them out for 91, their lowest score in India and second-lowest ever.
India will now aim to win the second test and better their chances to a spot in 2023 WTC Final.
