Scott Boland is set to light up the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) once again, while 19-year-old Sam Konstas will make his highly anticipated Test debut on Boxing Day as Australia gears up for the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India.Boland, a local favourite, returns to the venue where his stunning Ashes performance in 2021 etched his name into cricketing folklore. Replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, Boland will be tasked with leading Australia’s pace attack alongside Pat Cummins.
Meanwhile, Konstas, a precocious batting talent, will become the fourth-youngest Australian to don the baggy green at 19 years and 85 days. His selection underscores Australia’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
"We're really excited for him," coach Andrew McDonald said. "He's shown an array of shots and the ability to put pressure back on opponents. Age is no barrier when you’ve got the skill and temperament he’s displayed."
Australia Eyes Series VictoryWith a 2-1 lead in the series, Australia is poised to seal the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at a venue where Boland's past heroics still resonate. "If we didn’t pick Scotty here, I don’t think I’d come to the ground on Boxing Day," McDonald joked, underlining the Victorian pacer's importance.
The squad does face one lingering question, as Travis Head undergoes a fitness test for a minor quad strain. McDonald remains optimistic but noted, "He’s got some things to work through, but I’m confident he’ll play."
The Boxing Day Test promises to blend nostalgia and anticipation, with Boland's return and Konstas' debut offering a perfect backdrop for what could be a defining moment in the series.(UNI)
