AUS vs IND: Will Pucovski ruled out of Gabba Test, Harris named replacement

Australia’s Will Pucovski won’t be a part of the fourth and final Test against India starting January 15 at The Gabba in Brisbane. The 22-year-old wasn’t a part of the first two matches in Adelaide and Melbourne after which he made his Test debut at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

In his very first innings, the Victorian batsman impressed one and all, scoring 62 runs. However, during the fifth day of the Pink Test at the SCG, he sustained a shoulder subluxation injury while fielding. The youngster was put into rest and he underwent rehabilitation. Thereafter, his participation in the Brisbane Test became doubtful and eventually, he failed to make the cut.

Harris to replace Pucovski

Left-handed batsman Marcus Harris has replaced him in the eleven. Harris’ inclusion means that the hosts won’t be having the luxury of a left-right opening combo. The left-hander is set to open the batting with David Warner.

Harris has nine Tests under his belt in which he has scored 385 runs at an average and strike-rate of 24.06. In fact, back in December 2018, the 28-year-old Harris made his Test debut against India at the Adelaide Oval.

ICYMI, Marcus Harris will return to Australia’s XI for the series-deciding #AUSvIND Test at the Gabbahttps://t.co/Kv1drj79nO

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 14, 2021

Going into the Brisbane Test, the Aussies will again be pinning hopes on Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne in the middle-order. Even as Smith is fresh from getting the Player of the Match award after his 27th Test century, Labuschagne is also in good form. Matthew Wade has drawn a lot of criticism for throwing his wicket away after getting the measure of the conditions.

Cameron Green hasn’t disappointed in his maiden Test series either. The focus will also be on Tim Paine, who has been in the limelight for his behaviour than his performances. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood would be hoping to make merry at Australia’s fortress- The Gabba.

The trio failed to dislodge the Indian batting unit due to some stern resistance from the opposition. The Brisbane Test will also mark the 100th Test for off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who’s also on the cusp of 400 wickets in the format.

Here’s the eleven
David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood