Australia have confirmed their XI to take on Bangladesh in the first of a two-Test series tomorrow, with Ashton Agar and Usman Khwaja recalled to take part.
Khawaja’s recall comes despite the concerns about his ability to play against spin in the subcontinent, which cost him opportunities in the recent India series.
“I think he’s a player who has worked very hard on playing against spin,” said Australian captain Steve Smith.
“I know he didn’t get an opportunity in India, but he spent a lot of time in the nets working on lots of things and finding different ways to play and I’m sure that’ll hold him in good stead for this series as well.
“He’s worked hard in the nets the last week and hopefully we can see him have a big impact in this series.”
Agar has gotten his chance again, four years after making a memorable debut.
“Ashton Agar (is) back into the fold after four years out,” Smith said.
“I think he’s come a long way over the last year particularly.
“He’s been bowling very well in the nets. His lengths have been exceptional so if he can get those right in the game I’m sure he’ll have a big impact for us.”
Although Glenn Maxwell has been named in the side at No.6, Steve Smith says he expect once again that Maxwell will spend a limited amount of time bowling.
“I know I copped a little bit of criticism for not using him (Maxwell) as much in the India series but again, you’ve got two quality spinners and they’re there to do a job,” Smith said.
Australian XI to play Bangladesh, first Test
Steve Smith (c), David Warner, Matthew Renshaw, Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
john ham
Guest
Warner fails.....again! Kick him out Bring in another batter for the ashes not a big mouthed trout
Brian George
Guest
You're only allowed to play 11...
Rabbitz
Roar Guru
It's always a mistake to forget the beer.
Basil
Guest
You forgot Beer and Muller....
Ed Nixon
Roar Pro
Great to see Usman back in. Not sure why he has been overlooked for previous Asia games given he has only played 4 tests over in those conditions!
Tigerbill44
Roar Guru
Another fine autumn day here. Slight drizzle in the evening. No problem with the start tomorrow.
Jameswm
Guest
Yup
fp11
Guest
Exactly! Disrespectful. No probs spelling Maxwell or Warner. Sloppy editing just ruins the article.
fp11
Guest
Hey make up your mind Khwaja or Khawaha!
Mike Dugg
Guest
Mistake to leave Henriques, Nevill and Mitch Marsh out
Maggie
Guest
Khawaha? Khwaja? Khawaja? Is this one cricketer or three?
Scott Pryde
Expert
Yup, as expected.
BurgyGreen
Guest
Hope to see Maxwell get a ton here. Also keen to see the new Agar tested at the highest level - the conditions should be tailor-made for his bowling and he'll get the opportunity to bowl plenty of overs.