Forgotten Aussie quick’s pink-ball audition
Scott Boland will have the chance to make a statement against India with the pink ball after he was picked in the Prime Minister’s XI squad for next week’s match in Canberra.
The Victorian quick was named in the squad for the first Test in Perth but will get some crucial overs under his belt after being limited to just two first class matches this summer, including the Australia A fixture against India A earlier this month.
Boland’s ability to swing the ball and target the stumps could put him in the mix for a Test recall in the second Test in Adelaide where India will be hoping to avoid a repeat of what happened four years ago when they were bowled out for just 36.
It’s why this match at Manuka Oval starting on November 30 will be so important to their preparations for the tricky conditions they’ll face under lights at the Adelaide Oval in the second Test that starts on December 6.
Former Test opener Matt Renshaw is also in the squad on the back of his century in the Sheffield Shield last week, while Test aspirant Sam Konstas is one of many young guns hoping to impress selectors.
“The squad contains a mix of experience combined with some promising emerging players in Australian cricket,” National selection panel chair George Bailey said.
“The Prime Minister’s XI match presents an opportunity for a highly talented squad to impress against a strong Indian team in their only pink-ball hitout prior to the second Test.
“We are utilising the opportunity to maintain Scott Boland’s match fitness in his preparations as part of the Test squad.
“We thank the Prime Minister for his input into the squad which sees some of the country’s most exciting young cricketers mixed with some highly experienced players.”
Anthony Albanese is excited to see what his side can produce under the leadership of Jack Edwards.
“The Prime Minister’s XI has a rich history within Australian Cricket and I am delighted to confirm the squad for this summer’s match against India,” the Prime Minister said.
“Taking on India, one of the best sides in world cricket featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant, will be an amazing experience for the squad, particularly knowing that millions of fans around the globe will be watching the match.
“I want to thank Jack Edwards for taking on the role of captain and look forward to watching him lead a side which will compete strongly while remaining true to the traditions and values of the Prime Minister’s XI.”
Prime Minister’s XI squad to play India:
Jack Edwards (c)
Charlie Anderson
Mahli Beardman
Scott Boland
Jack Clayton
Aidan O’Connor
Ollie Davies
Jayden Goodwin
Sam Harper
Hanno Jacobs
Sam Konstas
Lloyd Pope
Matt Renshaw
Jem Ryan
