Australia is expected to field an identical starting lineup against Pakistan in Melbourne for the second Test, having announced a 13-player men’s squad.
The home team revealed a reduced roster, leaving out backup fast bowler Lance Morris on Monday.
On Sunday in Perth, the Australians thumped the visitors by 360 runs in four days, with off-spinner Nathan Lyon taking his 500th wicket.
In what is anticipated to be his final series, opener David Warner made sure he kept his spot for the Boxing Day Test by hitting a valiant 164.
The 37-year-old, who has been under pressure following a poor run and comments made by former fast bowler Mitchell Johnson that he did not deserve a hero’s farewell, has stated that the third Test in Sydney will be his last.
With pace leaders Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood all free of injuries and Scott Boland the top pick in case a replacement is required, Morris was freed to play in the Big Bash League.
“Lance has been released for the Melbourne match but will stay prepared for Test cricket as he remains firmly in our plans for the summer, should an opportunity arise,” stated chief selector George Bailey.
“Otherwise, the squad remains unchanged following the strong performance in Perth.”
Australia squad
David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Cameron Green
Australia tour schedule
Four-day match: PM’s XI vs Pakistan – December 6-9: Manuka Oval, Canberra
1st Test – Australia vs Pakistan – December 14-18: Perth Stadium
2nd Test – Australia vs Pakistan – December 26-30: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
3rd Test – Australia vs Pakistan – January 3-7: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
