Peter Handscomb, Todd Murphy, and Matt Kuhnemann have been included in Australia’s cricket squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The decision, announced on Friday, comes as the team prepares for the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Handscomb’s inclusion is particularly noteworthy as he is considered one of Australia’s premier players against spin. The Victorian last represented Australia during the Test series in India in 2023.
Both Murphy and Kuhnemann are expected to bolster Australia’s spin options, with the two Test matches scheduled to be played on the spinning tracks of Galle on January 29 and February 6. While Handscomb does not currently hold a Big Bash contract, Murphy and Kuhnemann are anticipated to be in Sydney, joining the squad between commitments with their respective Big Bash League teams.
There may be changes to Australia’s batting lineup in Galle, should selectors choose to promote Travis Head to an opening position, a move that would necessitate tough decisions regarding the omission of seasoned player Usman Khawaja or young talent Sam Konstas. Additionally, captain Pat Cummins is expected to miss part of the tour, as his wife Becky is due to give birth to their second child. This development sets the stage for significant strategic decisions as Australia refines its squad composition for the challenging conditions in Sri Lanka.
