Scott Boland to feature in Prime Minister's XI for tour match ahead of BGT 2024-25 2nd Test
Cricket Australia (CA) has named the Prime Minister XI's 14-man squad to face India in a two-day pink-ball game ahead of the second Test against the Men in Blue in Adelaide. Scott Boland, who missed out on selection in the opening Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth, will have an opportunity to push his selection case for the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval.
The two-day warm-up match, starting on November 30, is also likely to feature Rohit Sharma. The Indian captain did not travel with the team and chose to stay back for the birth of his second child. The ace batter had communicated with the BCCI, claiming that he wished to spend more time with the family. However, Rohit is likely to be available for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, beginning on December 6.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey thanked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's inputs for the squad and is looking forward to Boland giving himself every chance to play in Adelaide.
Bailey was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au:
"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."
14-man Squad: 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, Matthew Renshaw, Jem Ryan.
"Delighted to confirm the squad for this summer’s match against India" - Australian Prime Minister
Australian PM Anthony Albanese feels the youngsters facing the likes of Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah will be a sight to behold, claiming via cricket.com.au:
"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. 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."
Meanwhile, Team India have won the toss and elected to bat first in the opening Test against Australia in Perth.