Australia announce playing XI for first Test vs Bangladesh; Aston Agar, Usman Khawaja included

Usman Khawaja makes a comeback in Australia XI AFP

A norm followed only by a few sides, Australia have already announced their playing XI against Bangladesh for the first of the 2-Test series starting Sunday. Apart from the regulars they have recalled Usman Khawaja and Ashton Agar in the eleven in place Shaun Marsh and Steve O Keefe from the India tour. The first Test will take place at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur that as expected will be spinning track. Agar will partner Nathan Lyon in the spin department for Australia, while Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood form the 2-man pace attack.

Glenn Maxwell keeps his place along with Matt Renshaw and Peter Hanscomb. Steve Smith, David Warner remain the fulcrum of the batting unit, with Mathew Wade designated as wicketkeeper. "I think he s [Khawaja] a player who has worked very hard on playing against spin," Smith explained speaking to cricket.com.au. He further said, "He s worked hard in the nets the last week and hopefully we can see him have a big impact in this series.

Speaking on inclusion of Agar, Smith said, "Ashton Agar (is) back into the fold after four years out. I think he s come a long way over the last year particularly. He s been bowling very well in the nets. His lengths have been exceptional so if he can get those right in the game I m sure he ll have a big impact for us," Smith stated.

Australia XI: Steve Smith (c), David Warner, Matthew Renshaw, Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood