The 'Big Four' Return as Australia Launch Massive Test Calendar

Test cricket returns to Australia's tropical Top End for the first time since 2003 as the hosts prepare to face Bangladesh in a two-match series starting this Thursday. The opening encounter at Marrara Stadium in Darwin marks Bangladesh's first Test tour of Australian soil in over two decades.

The series marks the beginning of a grueling 12-month marathon for the Australian side, who are scheduled to play at least 20 Tests. This extensive calendar includes high-stakes series against South Africa, India, and England.

Bowling Strength Restored

Australia will boast a formidable bowling attack as Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon return from injuries to reunite with Mitchell Starc. Due to recent injuries, this core group of four has rarely featured together in recent series.

The return of Hazlewood has come at a cost, with Scott Boland expected to miss out on the starting XI. Captain Pat Cummins addressed the tough selection call during a press conference on Wednesday:

“We know Scotty's class, it is always a pretty tight call. There is not much you can say to Scotty except there is a lot of cricket coming up. He knows his worth, and how good he is, and I am sure he will be out there at some point pretty soon.”

Batting Uncertainties and New Faces

While the bowling looks settled, the batting order remains a point of discussion. Jake Weatherald, the first Test player hailing from Australia's Northern Territory, retains his spot despite a dip in recent form and is expected to open alongside Travis Head.

The retirement of Usman Khawaja has provided the tactical flexibility to include both all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster in the same XI. Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith are slated for the No. 3 and No. 4 positions, with Labuschagne under pressure to find runs to cement his place.

Bangladesh Suffer Key Absences

The visiting Bangladeshi side faces a significant challenge, entering the first Test without key bowlers Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam. Shoriful is potentially available for the second match in Mackay (August 22-26), but the loss of 23-year-old Nahid Rana—who was pivotal in their ODI series win over Australia two months ago—is a blow following a side strain suffered against Zimbabwe.

A Grueling Year Ahead

Following the Bangladesh series, Australia's itinerary is packed:

• October: Three Tests in South Africa.
• Following: Four Tests against New Zealand.
• Next: A five-Test series in India.
• March: A historic one-off day-night Test against England at the MCG to celebrate the 150th anniversary of their rivalry.
• June: An away Ashes series to conclude the cycle.

Depending on their qualification for the World Test Championship final, the total number of Tests could exceed 20.