Boland to Feature in Prime Minister's XI Pink-Ball Clash Against India

Australian fast bowler Scott Boland will play for the Prime Minister's XI in a two-day pink-ball match against India in Canberra on November 30 and December 1. The fixture is intended to help Boland maintain match fitness in preparation for potential Test duties during the series against India.  

The team, led by New South Wales allrounder Jack Edwards, features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Notable inclusions are Matt Renshaw, who was overlooked for the recent Australia A series but remains in contention as a reserve Test batter, and young talent Sam Konstas, who represented Australia A against India A.  

Four members of Australia’s Under-19 World Cup-winning squad—Mahli Beardman, Charlie Anderson, Aiden O'Connor, and Konstas—are included, reflecting the team's focus on nurturing future talent. Beardman, a Western Australia quick, and Anderson, who debuted for New South Wales this season, have been particularly fast-tracked into higher-level cricket.  

The ACT is represented by pace-bowling all-rounder Hanno Jacobs, while local premier cricketers will support the squad during the match.  

National selector George Bailey emphasized the significance of the match, stating, "The Prime Minister's XI match presents an opportunity for a highly talented squad to impress against a strong Indian team in their only pink-ball hit out prior to the second Test."  

India’s squad features global stars like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant, adding weight to the challenge. The game is also expected to mark the tour debut of India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, following the birth of his second child.  

Prime Minister’s XI Squad 

Jack Edwards (captain), Charlie Anderson, Mahli Beardman, Scott Boland, Jack Clayton, Aidan O'Connor, Ollie Davies, Jayden Goodwin, Sam Harper, Hanno Jacobs, Sam Konstas, Lloyd Pope, Matt Renshaw, Jem Ryan.  

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commented, “Taking on India, one of the best sides in world cricket, will be an incredible experience for the squad, with millions of fans around the globe watching.”