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Konstas, Richardson Join Australia for Boxing Day Test

Australia has made significant changes to their squad for the final two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series against India. The most notable inclusion is teenage batting sensation Sam Konstas, who is set to become the youngest Test batting debutant for Australia in over 70 years. Konstas replaces opener Nathan McSweeney, who had a challenging start to his international career, managing only 72 runs at an average of 14.4 in the first three Tests.

Jhye Richardson, the fast bowler, has also been recalled to the squad after recovering from a series of injuries. Richardson's return is timely, given the injury to Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the Test summer due to a calf injury sustained during the third Test in Brisbane.

Sean Abbott and uncapped Tasmania allrounder Beau Webster are also part of the 15-player squad for the remaining Tests at Melbourne and Sydney. Abbott's return strengthens the bowling department, while Webster's inclusion adds depth to the all-round capabilities of the team.

The selection changes are aimed at addressing the struggles of Australia's top-order batting, which has been a significant concern throughout the series. Usman Khawaja, in particular, has had a tough time, averaging just 12.6, his lowest in a series of two or more Tests.

Captain Pat Cummins has defended his top-order batsmen, highlighting the challenges of batting at the top of the order in current world cricket. However, the selectors have opted for a different approach, hoping that Konstas's aggressive style of batting will offer a point of difference against India's strong bowling attack.

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