IND vs AUS 2020: Harris Added To Australian Squad After Opener Pucovski Gets Ruled Out From Adelaide Test

"Given the spate of injuries in recent weeks, we’re fortunate to be able to bring a player of Marcus’ calibre into the Test squad," Australia's National Selector Trevor Hohns said.

Marcus Harris

Australian national selectors have added top order batsman Marcus Harris to their Test squad for the Adelaide Test after promising Victorian top order batsman Will Pucovski was ruled out of the series opener against India at the Adelaide Oval, starting Dec 17. Pucovski, who was as one of the front-runners to open the innings for the hosts in Adelaide Test, had to retire hurt on the final day of the first practice game played between India A and India A at Sydney after a lethal bouncer from seamer Kartik Tyagi dealt him a massive blow on the helmet. "Given the spate of injuries in recent weeks, we’re fortunate to be able to bring a player of Marcus’ calibre into the Test squad," Australia's National Selector Trevor Hohns said. "Marcus has been in outstanding form for Victoria this season and has had the benefit of facing India’s bowlers in both three-day tour matches at Drummoyne and under lights at the SCG.

JUST IN: Marcus Harris has been added to the Australia squad for the Adelaide Test ➕

He has been drafted in following confirmation of David Warner and Will Pucovski's unavailability for the first match. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Fgd9dzGPWa — ICC (@ICC) December 12, 2020

"At the same time, we are disappointed for David and Will that they will not be available for the first Vodafone Test. We have taken a conservative approach in managing Will since he sustained the concussion and hope he and David will be back to full health ahead of the Boxing Day Test." "Marcus has been in outstanding form for Victoria this season and has had the benefit of facing India’s bowlers in both three-day tour matches at Drummoyne and under lights at the SCG. Also Watch: Cameron Green Knocked Down After Getting Hit On Head By Batsman Jasprit Bumrah's Fiery Shot "At the same time, we are disappointed for David and Will that they will not be available for the first Vodafone Test. We have taken a conservative approach in managing Will since he sustained the concussion and hope he and David will be back to full health ahead of the Boxing Day Test." Australia have major injury concerns to address ahead of the opening Test of the 4-match Test series after their regular opener David Warner was ruled out of the 1st Test due to a hamstring injury. Pucovski was in doubt after suffering a head injury in the first practice game against India. In 9 Tests for Australia, Harris has scored 385 runs at an average of 24+plus with 2 half tons. The left handed opening batsman had made his Test debut against India at the Adelaide Oval in 2018.