Cricket News: Australia squad for 3rd Test against South Africa | Who will replace Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc?

Australia have named Queensland batsman Matt Renshaw and Western Australia all-rounder Ashton Agar in the 14-man squad for the third Test against South Africa at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

The duo have come in as replacements for Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc who both suffered finger injuries in Australia’s massive innings-and-182-run win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Australia 14-man squad for SCG Test against South Africa

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

Michael Neser, who bowled nicely against West Indies earlier this season, is unlucky to have missed out. Josh Hazlewood has recovered from a side strain and is likeliest to replace Starc, especially given he has an impressive 20 wickets at an average of 25.80 at the SCG.

Renshaw could slot in as Green’s replacement at number six should Australia believe that four frontline bowlers are enough. The left-hander has struck 310 runs in five Sheffield Shield matches this season at an average of 51.66, which includes an unbeaten 200* against New South Wales. He also scored 81 and 101* for Prime Minister’s XI against West Indies before the Tests.

Win at SCG will guarantee place in World Test Championship Final

Should Australia beat South Africa at the SCG, they will be guaranteed a place in the World Test Championship Final in June. Even if Pat Cummins’ team loses 4-0 in India, they will finish on a win percentage of 63.16, which is more than the maximum Sri Lanka and South Africa can reach.

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