MCG cult hero Scott Boland will have a chance to repeat his 2021 heroics after being named in Australia’s XI for the Second Test against South Africa.
Boland was unsure of his spot in the squad with Josh Hazlewood proving his fitness and being available for the Boxing Day Test.
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On Sunday morning Aussie skipper Pat Cummins gave Boland the ideal Christmas present by confirming he would be playing ahead of Hazlewood.
Boland has become a fan favourite among Aussie cricket faithful after producing some stunning performances during his five Tests.
His big moment came during the Boxing Day Test last year when he ripped the heart out of England by producing an absurd 6-7 on debut.
Hazlewood has missed the past two Tests after sustaining a minor side strain and loomed large as a selection nightmare for the second Test.
But Hazlewood declared himself not ready to return, saving selectors from having to make the tough decision.
Australian XI: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon.
The Boxing Day Test gets underway on Monday with the action kicking off from 10:30am (AEDT) at the MCG.