‘Keeper Matthew Wade and spinner Glenn Maxwell are likely to miss out on the Starting XI in Mohali.
Australian captain Michael Clarke stated today that the fitness of wicket-keeper Matthew Wade would determine his team selection.
Wade injured his ankle playing basketball with team-mates on Saturday and Brad Haddin was flown out to India as cover.
It now seems that the first choice ‘keeper will not recover in time for the third Test on Thursday, which will force Clarke’s hand somewhat as he will only be left with 12 available players. This is mainly due to four players being suspended on Monday for unprofessional behaviour.
With Haddin filling in for Wade as an almost like-for-like swap, although the replacement may not bat as high up the order, Clarke’s only major decision is to decide on which spinner to leave out.
Xavier Doherty, Nathan Lyon and Glenn Maxwell are all available to the Australian captain, but based on performance it is believed that Maxwell will be the one to give way.
There is also likely to be a return to the side for all-rounder Steve Smith. The 23-year-old will be given his first chance in the Test side since Australia’s miserable Ashes series of 2010/11.
Smith is one of few people benefiting from the suspensions, which will see Phillip Hughes also retain his place at No.3.
Australia have to win the next Test, which starts at Mohali on Thursday, to avoid losing the four match series. They are currently 2-0 down to India going into the third Test.
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