Australia A name Playing XI for 1st unofficial Test against India A in Puducherry

Australia A have named their Playing XI for the first unofficial Test against India A, scheduled to be played from September 22 to 25, 2026, at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Stadium in Puducherry.

According to Code Sports, Peter Handscomb will be leading the side in the upcoming red-ball encounter. Handscomb leads the side for the multi-day component of the tour, with Josh Philippe taking the wicketkeeping duties behind the stumps.

The Australians have selected a balanced eleven that includes experienced top-order batters alongside a varied bowling attack. Sam Konstas and Campbell Kellaway are set to open the batting for the visitors, with Nathan McSweeney coming in at number three. Handscomb will bat at number four, followed by Jason Sangha at number five.

Philippe, who will keep wickets, provides additional batting depth in the middle order. The bowling unit features Liam Scott and Fergus O'Neill as the primary pace options, while Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli offer spin variety suited to the subcontinental conditions in Puducherry. Brendan Doggett rounds out the pace attack, giving Australia A three frontline seamers in their roster for the upcoming encounter.

The selection reflects a deliberate effort to expose Australia's emerging talent to Indian conditions ahead of potential senior international commitments. Players such as Konstas and McSweeney have been in and around the senior Australia setup, making this tour a significant opportunity for them to build red-ball form on turning pitches.

Australia A Playing XI for 1st unofficial Test against India A

Sam Konstas, Campbell Kellaway, Nathan McSweeney, Peter Handscomb (captain), Jason Sangha, Josh Philippe (wicketkeeper), Liam Scott, Fergus O'Neill, Todd Murphy, Corey Rocchiccioli and Brendan Doggett

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