Pat Cummins confirmed Cameron Green will continue at No. 3 for Australia in the first Test against West Indies in Barbados, calling the all-rounder a “long-term option” despite his early dismissal in the recent World Test Championship final loss to South Africa.
“He’s hitting the ball really well,” Cummins said. “He had a Test that didn’t go to plan, but we’re really happy with where his game is and he’ll get a decent run at number three.”
Josh Inglis slots in at No. 4 with Steve Smith sidelined by a finger injury, while 19-year-old Sam Konstas will open alongside Usman Khawaja after Marnus Labuschagne was dropped.
Australia has retained the same bowling attack from the South Africa defeat, with Nathan Lyon as the sole spinner. Cummins admitted uncertainty around pitch behaviour but suggested it may assist spin late in the game.
Mind games
West Indies, led by new captain Roston Chase, also named a pace-heavy attack with Shamar Joseph, Alzarri Joseph, and Jayden Seales. Chase, back for his first Test in over two years, will have two spinners in support.
Chase hinted at psychological warfare, referencing the visitor’s collapse in Brisbane last year. “I hope there are some scars,” he said of Shamar Joseph’s famous seven-wicket burst in the Gabba Test.
The Caribbean side enters a new era under red-ball coach Darren Sammy, who has overhauled the squad. Just four players remain from the Gabba win, and only three from its last Test against Pakistan.
Brandon King, known for his T20 exploits, will debut in the longest format. Shai Hope returns after a three-year absence, and John Campbell reclaims his place after time out of the side.
“It’s a new era, a fresh start, and a new World Test Championship cycle,” Chase said.