Australia announce playing XI for Brisbane Test

Will Pucovski is replaced by his Victoria opening partner Marcus Harris in the Brisbane Test starting from 15th January. Harris has represented Australia in 9 Tests – scoring 385 runs at an average of 24.06.

Pucovski who had a decent debut at Sydney failed to pass the fitness test on Thursday which led to his replacement.

“Will Pucovski won’t play tomorrow. He’s tried to train this morning. Didn’t quite come up. So he’ll have a bit of work to do with our medicos to see where he goes from here but I think he’ll obviously miss this Test match and Marcus Harris will come in for him.” said the Aussie skipper Tim Paine.

Australia Playing XI for Brisbane Test:

David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c & wk), Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Marcus Harris last played Test cricket for Australia in the Ashes 2019 where he was brought in to replace Cameron Bancroft mid way. The Perth born batsman could only manage 58 runs in 6 innings in that series.

“Harry’s just a no-fuss very good player. He’s been working his backside off for a while now, he’s had huge numbers in Sheffield Shield cricket and deserves his opportunity.” Paine said.

Australia has not lost a single Test at Brisbane since 1989. With the positive record they have at the venue, Aussies would be looking forward to winning a Test and clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from India.

The Brisbane Test will mark the 100th Test match for Nathan Lyon who needs 4 more wickets to reach the 400 Test wickets mark!