Pat Cummins, Australia's captain, discloses Boxing Day Test XI against Pakistan

In the forthcoming Boxing Day Test between Australia and Pakistan, Captain Pat Cummins confirmed an unaltered Australian XI, sidelining Scott Boland. Despite Boland's previous success at the MCG, Cummins favored consistency, leaving him out. Meanwhile, Pakistan swapped Mohammad Rizwan for Sarfaraz Ahmed in their lineup.

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Australia's captain, Pat Cummins, finalized the playing squad for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Pakistan. The team lineup remains unchanged from the previous match, reaffirming the faith in a consistent XI. Notably, local hero Scott Boland misses out on this opportunity to showcase his skills in front of his home crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Boland's exceptional performance in a previous Ashes series at the MCG, where he secured remarkable figures of 6/7, had raised hopes for his inclusion. However, the trio of Mitchell Starc, Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood has maintained dominance, leaving limited space for alterations.

Cummins expressed immense regard for Boland, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the game. He emphasized Boland's readiness for potential future opportunities, acknowledging the likelihood of changes in the fast bowling lineup due to injuries or other unforeseen circumstances.

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On the opposing side, Pakistan made a significant alteration to their squad by excluding former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed. The Pakistani camp revealed a 12-member list for the Test, indicating the replacement of Sarfaraz Ahmed with Mohammad Rizwan, who is expected to take charge behind the stumps. Skipper Shan Masood will unveil Pakistan's final XI during the toss.

As the anticipation builds for the Boxing Day Test, both teams have made calculated decisions in shaping their lineups. Australia, committed to stability, continues with their proven XI, while Pakistan opts for a change in the wicketkeeping role. The stage is set for an exciting encounter between these cricketing giants.