Australia has announced their decision to retain the same 13-player roster for the upcoming third and concluding Test against Pakistan, scheduled to commence on January 3 at the renowned Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This match holds special significance as it marks the final appearance of David Warner in Test cricket wearing the Australian jersey.
The team, led by Pat Cummins, has remained consistent in their selection, keeping faith in players like Cameron Green and Scott Boland. Despite expectations around Lance Morris making his debut in this series, he will continue playing for the Perth Scorchers in the current Big Bash League (BBL) season.
Australia's performance in the series has been nothing short of dominant. They currently lead 2-0, having secured a massive 360-run win in Perth, followed by a 79-run triumph in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). With the series already in their pocket, the Australian team is eyeing a clean sweep, aiming for a 3-0 whitewash and their 19th consecutive Test victory against Pakistan.
The coaching staff, with Andrew McDonald at the helm, has expressed satisfaction with the condition of their fast bowlers. McDonald highlighted that the four-day interval between the Melbourne and Sydney Tests has been greatly beneficial for the players, especially the bowlers, in terms of recovery and preparation.
"At this stage they have got through well. As we sat down in the changeroom (on Friday), the feedback was good in terms of the bodies. In two days' time, we'll probably get a better handle on that," McDonald was quoted as saying.
Warner's contribution to Australian cricket has been monumental. Recently surpassing Steve Waugh, Warner is now Australia's second-highest run-scorer in international cricket. His illustrious Test career, spanning 111 matches to date, has seen him amass 8,695 runs, including 26 centuries and 36 half-centuries.
As Australia prepares for this historic Test at the SCG, the team not only looks to seal a series whitewash but also to give a fitting farewell to one of their modern-day greats, David Warner. This match is set to be a significant chapter in Australian cricket history, marking the end of an era with Warner's last Test and the potential for yet another dominant performance against Pakistan.
Australia squad for 3rd Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner
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