Travis Head Ruled Out Due To Injury? Australia's Strongest XI For Boxing Day Test

Debashis Sarangi

Travis Head is doubtful for MCG Test [Source: AP]Travis Head is doubtful for MCG Test [Source: AP]

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has raised uncertainties over explosive batter Travis Head's participation in the fourth Test against India at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Speaking to reporters ahead of the much-awaited clash, McDonald stated that although he was optimistic about the batter playing the MCG encounter, some tests still needed to be done before taking a final call on his participation in the all-important clash. 

What if Travis Head misses the Boxing Day Test due to quad injury? What would Australia's probable playing XI then be? Let's analyse and find out. 

Who Will Replace Travis Head?

If we look at Australia's Test squad for the final two BGT Tests, Josh Inglis seems the frontrunner to replace Travis Head if the southpaw misses the fourth Test due to injury. Inglis has been pretty consistent in international cricket, having also showcased his mettle in First-Class cricket. 

In 96 First-Class innings, Inglis has amassed 3095 runs at an average of 36.41. So, considering he bats in the middle order, the swashbuckling right-hander could be Travis Head's potential replacement. 

In another move, Australia might persist with Mitchell Marsh in order to ensure experience in their middle order. Despite struggling with poor form, Marsh might retain his place, as he has performed impressively at MCG, scoring 212 runs in seven innings at an average of 42.40. However, as the veteran cricketer hasn't given enough confidence to the team management with the ball, we might see Beau Webster making his Test debut alongside Sam Konstas. 

Among others, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne are certain starters in the playing XI, while Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon are all set to lead the Australian bowling attack.

Australia's Strongest XI For MCG Test (If Head is ruled out)

Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis/Mitchell Marsh, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland