Matt Renshaw, Ashton Agar recalled for Sydney Test; Hazlewood returns 

Matthew Renshaw has scored 310 runs in Sheffield Shield 2022-23 [Source: Twitter]

Ahead of the third and final Test against South Africa, Australia have recalled Matthew Renshaw and Ashton Agar to their 14-man squad, in place of the injured Mitchell Starc and Cameron Green. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood also makes a return from injury, after missing the first two games.

Both Starc and Green suffered finger injuries during the recently concluded Boxing Day Test, which the hosts won by an innings and 182 runs.

Renshaw last played for Australia back in 2018 against the same opposition in Johannesburg. The left-handed opener has scored 310 runs in the ongoing Sheffield Shield 2022-23 for Queensland and has been their most consistent batter over the last few seasons.

Meanwhile, Agar, who last featured in whites for Australia back in 2017, could come in handy down the order, a role that Green plays.

Lance Morris, who plays for Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, continues to be in the Test squad. 

Speaking of Renshaw and Agar's inclusion, selector Tony Dodemaide mentioned how both players add depth to the side.

"Ashton offers a second spin option should the Sydney pitch be conducive to turn, as it has done in the past. He also brings a solid batting component. Matthew is included as a versatile batting option who is in good form, including an unbeaten century in the recent PM's XI tour match against the West Indies.

In terms of fast bowlers, it's a blessing to have Josh (Hazlewood) returning while Lance (Morris) offers a genuine point of difference with his raw pace and skill."

Australia lead the three-Test series 2-0, after winning the Perth and Melbourne encounters. ​

Australia's squad for Third Test:

Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, and David Warner.

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