Hazlewood Gets the Nod: Australia's Test XI for the Darwin Opener

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-08-13

Australia has named its starting eleven for the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, and the big news is that Josh Hazlewood has edged out Scott Boland for the final pace bowling spot. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed the lineup a day before the match, which marks the return of Test cricket to Darwin after a 22-year absence. This will also be the first time Australia's first-choice pace trio has played together since their tour of the West Indies over a year ago. ### Hazlewood's Long Road Back Hazlewood hasn't played international cricket since October last year, missing the entire Ashes series due to injury. Cummins himself only managed one match during that period, his sole Test appearance since the West Indies tour. The captain explained that the selectors were confident about including Nathan Lyon first, then built the pace attack around him. "It was a tough call to leave out Boland," Cummins admitted. "He's a quality bowler, but there's more cricket ahead, and he'll get his chance soon." Alongside Boland, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis is the other squad member who misses out on the starting XI. ### Lyon Returns After Injury Scare Nathan Lyon is also back in the side after a hamstring injury cut short his Ashes campaign in Adelaide. The spinner had been dropped for two day-night Tests last year before playing a pivotal role in Adelaide, where his bowling helped Australia clinch the Ashes just before he got hurt. Cummins praised Lyon's current form, saying he had reviewed footage from that Adelaide Test and rated it among the best spells Lyon has bowled in years. "The timing of the injury was unfortunate, but he's put in the effort over the past six months, training daily and pushing for this opportunity," Cummins said. "He looks in excellent shape and is bowling well. Having him back adds real value for the team." ### Middle Order Looks Solid Australia's batting order sees Jake Weatherald open alongside Travis Head, continuing the pairing they built during the Ashes series. Marnus Labuschagne and Steven Smith follow at three and four, while Cameron Green and Beau Webster slot in around wicketkeeper Alex Carey in the middle order. Carey had said he would be open to batting higher up the order, but Cummins confirmed he will continue at number six. "Carey has won matches for Australia from that position," the captain explained. "Pairing him with Webster at six and seven works well for our team balance. Green suits the number five role and gives us more flexibility, even though Carey's batting ability would justify a higher slot." ### Bangladesh's Lineup Still Under Wraps Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has not revealed his XI yet, citing a few fitness concerns within the squad. He confirmed, however, that Litton Das has recovered and will be available for selection. The visitors will be hoping to put up a strong fight against an Australian side that looks settled and confident. ### Australia's XI for the First Test vs Bangladesh - Jake Weatherald - Travis Head - Marnus Labuschagne - Steven Smith - Cameron Green - Alex Carey (wk) - Beau Webster - Mitchell Starc - Pat Cummins (capt) - Nathan Lyon - Josh Hazlewood With a balanced attack and a settled batting order, Australia looks ready to make a strong statement in Darwin. The return of Hazlewood and Lyon gives the team a formidable edge, and fans will be eager to see how this combination performs on home soil. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will need to dig deep to counter a well-rounded Australian side. For more cricket news and updates, stay tuned to your favorite sports channels and blogs. --- *This article was adapted from a report by Dr. Annelies De Vos, Senior Analyst in Port Policy and Maritime Strategy.*