Australia's Legendary Bowling Quartet Aims for Historic World Title
Historic Aspirations of Australia's Bowling Legends
The renowned Australian bowling lineup, featuring captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and spinner Nathan Lyon, is on the verge of making history. They are determined to achieve their first world title together as part of the playing eleven.
Despite their impressive achievements, which include a combined total of 1,508 Test wickets, this formidable quartet has yet to celebrate championship success as a unit. Various factors, including injuries and format changes, have prevented them from playing together during significant tournaments like the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, and the ICC World Test Championship 2023.
Milestones Achieved by Australia's Bowling Quartet
In 2024, this distinguished group of bowlers made history by each surpassing 250 Test wickets. Nathan Lyon ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker for Australia with 553 wickets in 136 Tests. Starc follows closely with 382 wickets in 96 matches, placing him fourth. Captain Cummins is just six wickets shy of reaching 300 Test wickets, currently holding eighth place with 294 wickets in 67 matches. Hazlewood rounds out the group at tenth with 279 wickets in 72 matches, 21 away from his own milestone.
The upcoming World Test Championship final against South Africa will mark the 33rd occasion these four bowlers have played together in a Test match, showcasing their remarkable longevity. Lyon, Cummins, and Starc debuted in 2011, while Hazlewood joined the team in 2014. Throughout their time together, Australia has faced defeat in eight of the 32 Tests.
Defending the WTC Title Under Cummins' Leadership
Under the leadership of Cummins, Australia is set to defend the World Test Championship mace, which they secured after defeating India in the previous final held at The Oval in June 2023.
The squad for the WTC final includes: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, and Matt Kuhnemann. Brendan Doggett will serve as the traveling reserve.