Australia’s selection for the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford has seen Todd Murphy dropped to make way for Mitch Marsh and Cameron Greene in the playing XI.
JUST IN: Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green will play at Old Trafford with Scott Boland and Todd Murphy making way #Ashes
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) July 18, 2023
The team confirmed their lineup on Tuesday, with Marsh batting at No.6, Green at No.7 and Alex Carey at No.8. Opener David Warner has retained his place despite doubts about his selection, while Josh Hazlewood is back. Bowling attack, replacing Scott Boland.
However, the decision to drop Murphy is paramount, as Australia aim to secure a victory that would lead to their first Ashes series win in England since 2001. match, they will rely on the spin bowling of part-timer Travis Head at Old Trafford.
The decision takes into account Murphy’s limited role in the previous Test at Headingley, where he bowled just 9.3 overs, as well as wet weather forecast for most of the match in Manchester.
Captain Pat Cummins defended the decision, insisting it did not reflect a lack of confidence in Murphy after filling in for the injured Nathan Lyon for just one match. Cummins highlighted Lyon’s formidable status as Australia’s great off-spinner and explained that the selection was based on current conditions.
He expressed enthusiasm about Murphy’s potential and praised his contribution, noting that the team would have liked to use him more but the conditions favored the fast bowlers.
Cummins also expressed confidence in Head’s spin bowling abilities, highlighting his previous success in Sri Lanka where he claimed 4-10. He recognized that Head added a different dimension to Lyon’s style and praised his defensive skills, subtle variations, and increased use. Cummins also mentioned that Steve Smith and Marence Lebuschgen could contribute their leg-spin if required.
Allaying concerns about Warner’s form, Cummins dismissed doubts about his place at the top of the order. He emphasized the importance of Warner’s contributions, especially in difficult situations, and highlighted his class in limited-overs cricket. The team expressed satisfaction with Warner’s current form and performance.
The Australian line-up for the fourth Ashes Test will include David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marence Lebouchen, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
