Todd Murphy likely to make debut in Nagpur Test

Todd Murphy | PC: Twitter

Victoria spinner Todd Murphy is in the contention for the series opener against India in Nagpur which is slated to start on Thursday (February 9) at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium. 

The visitors had to reconsider their lineup after witnessing India's pitch preparation. Murphy will become the 465th player to earn the Baggy Green cap for Australia as they aim to reclaim the Border Gavaskar Trophy after three consecutive disappointments.

Speaking ahead of the Nagpur Test on Wednesday, Australian captain Pat Cummins opened up on the playing combination. Though he did not reveal the playing XI but he confirmed that the selectors have decided the side. 

Cummins provided an update of Murphy's preparation ahead of the big challenge, stating the 22-year-old would be as prepared as he could be for the opening Test. Murphy will be paired up with senior spinner Nathan Lyon. 

Here's what Pat Cummins said: 

“He’s  [Murphy] been bowling beautifully in the nets over here. He’s started really well for Victoria in first-class cricket. If he got the nod, he’s got Nathan Lyon down the other end that he can work with." 

“He’s ready – everyone in the squad here has had really good preparation. Whoever we pick is 100 percent ready to go.”

Murphy's inclusion in the playing XI implies that either Ashton Agar or Scott Boland will miss the Nagpur Test. Notably, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood have ruled out of the opening Test due to respective injuries. 

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