Australia have unveiled its 16-player squad for the upcoming two-Test series in Sri Lanka, set to begin on January 29 in Galle. The team will be led by Steve Smith, who takes over as interim captain in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins.
Cummins is unavailable for the tour due to paternity leave and a minor ankle issue, managed during the recent home summer. His absence opens the door for Smith to lead the team in what promises to be a challenging tour for Australia in subcontinent conditions.
New Faces and Returns
The squad includes several fresh faces, reflecting Australia’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Former Australia U19 World Cup captain Cooper Connolly has earned his maiden Test squad call-up. Additionally, Nathan McSweeney, who missed the recent Melbourne and Sydney Tests during the Border-Gavaskar Series, has been recalled.
Josh Inglis and Sean Abbott are also part of the touring party, and both could potentially receive their first Test caps. Spinners Matt Kuhnemann and Todd Murphy return to the setup, bolstering Australia’s spin options in conditions expected to favor slow bowling.
However, the team will miss the services of Josh Hazlewood, sidelined with a calf injury, and Mitchell Marsh, who is focusing on preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Notable omissions include Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, and Peter Handscomb, all of whom had been considered as possible candidates for the tour.
Challenges in Sri Lanka
Australian selector George Bailey emphasized the importance of this tour for developing players’ adaptability to subcontinental conditions.
“Sri Lanka presents unique challenges, with conditions that test both skill and temperament. This squad provides us with flexibility to structure the playing XI based on the pitches we encounter,” Bailey said.
The series also serves as a key opportunity for Australia to prepare for future subcontinent tours while giving newer players a chance to shine on the global stage.
Test Championship Context
While the matches form part of the World Test Championship 2023-2025 cycle, Australia and South Africa have already secured the top two spots. Australia will defend their Test Championship mace against South Africa at Lord’s starting June 11.
Australia’s Squad: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
Schedule:
• January 29 – February 2: First Test, Galle
• February 6 – February 10: Second Test, Galle