Australia will take a massive squad that “covers all scenarios” to Pakistan on its first overseas Test tour since the 2019 Ashes.
A full commitment from Australia’s Test stars for the historic tour of Pakistan has allowed selectors to pick the best squad possible.
Opening batsman Marcus Harris, despite being dropped for the final Ashes Test, has made a bulked-up 18-player squad that includes three spinners and extra cover for any Covid-related issues.
The first tour in the post Justin Langer era will be Australia’s first to Pakistan since 1998 despite ongoing concerns around potential security issues.
Spinner Ashton Agar is the only additional player not to have featured in the Ashes party over the summer, with new Test cult hero Scott Boland included among the fast bowling stocks.
Mitchell Marsh will also travel, while Josh Inglis will get an opportunity to shadow wicketkeeper Alex Carey on tour.
“This squad covers for all scenarios including the conditions given it has been such a long time since Australia was last in Pakistan,” said national selector George Bailey.
“With several subcontinent tours and a one-day World Cup in India on the near horizon, this is a great first-up challenge for the group after the successful home Ashes series.
“It’s also a very historic tour given the length of time since an Australian side last toured Pakistan.”
Marcus Harris has kept his spot in the Test squad. Picture: David Gray / AFP
Cricket Australia and the players’ association did expect there could be some players sit out the tour after England and New Zealand both withdrew from tours late last year at the 11th hour amid security concerns.
But all players have committed to what will be Australia’s first overseas Test tour since the 2019 Ashes.
The Test playing contingent and staff are due to depart for Pakistan later this month, while white-ball players, to be announced separately, will join mid-tour for the one-day internationals and T20 international.
Australian squad: Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner.
Keyword: Australia will take 18-player Test squad to Pakistan for first tour there since 1998