Scott Boland’s Spot in Danger for the Boxing Day Test

Boland has been sensational for Australia since his debut [Source: Associated Press]

Australian selectors face a selection conundrum ahead of the Boxing Day Test against South Africa as Scott Boland is in danger of losing his place in the playing eleven to the returning Josh Hazlewood.

Hazlewood, who missed the series opener in Brisbane, will be back in contention for the second Test of the three-match series at the MCG. The right-arm pacer suffered a side strain that kept him out of the day-night clash against the West Indies in Adelaide. 

He failed to recover in time for the recently concluded Gabba Test against South Africa, prompting Scott Boland to take his spot in the playing XI.

Boland made his debut last year at MCG. He has taken 25 wickets in five Tests at an average of just 10.36 (Lowest for a bowler in Test history for the players who have taken at least 25 wickets). Last year, the Victorian claimed second innings figures of 6-7 during the Boxing Day Test and helped Australia win against England on the third day.

Boland has cashed on every opportunity he has got, so it will be interesting to see if he can retain his place if Hazlewood gets fit.

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