Australia vs India cricket Test news: Will Pucovski ruled out with concussion, Marcus Harris added to squad
Marcus Harris has been added to the Australian squad for the first Test against India at the Adelaide Oval.
Harris has been drafted into the squad after Will Pucovski was ruled out following his latest concussion.
Harris now appears almost certain to open the batting with David Warner also unavailable and Joe Burns struggling for runs.
Harris has represented Australia in nine Test matches and has scored 355 runs at an average of 118.33 in two Sheffield Shield matches for Victoria this season.
Will Pucovski of Australia A lies injured after been struck in the helmet. Getty
"Given the spate of injuries in recent weeks, we're fortunate to be able to bring a player of Marcus' calibre into the Test squad," selector Trevor Hohns said.
"Marcus has been in outstanding form for Victoria this season and has had the benefit of facing India's bowlers in both three-day tour matches at Drummoyne and under lights at the SCG.
Marcus Harris congratulates Will Pucovski on reaching his century. Getty
"At the same time, we are disappointed for David and Will that they will not be available for the first Test.
"We have taken a conservative approach in managing Will since he sustained the concussion and hope he and David will be back to full health ahead of the Boxing Day Test."
Harris told Fox Sports that he had been happy to fly under the radar this summer.
The 28-year-old averages 24.06 from his nine Tests.
"It's been good actually, not being the one that's being spoken about," Harris said.
"I knew coming here if I went OK I'd put myself in a position, the way things have been going.
"I obviously wasn't in the Test squad last summer so I didn't have that distraction coming into this summer.
"I've just been focusing on what I needed to do.
"It's been good and now I find myself where I am now.
"I feel pretty ready and looking forward to it."
Harris said his preparations wouldn't change ahead of his second bat for Australia A, despite the mid-game call-up.
"So much crap has been going on, nothing is too surprising now.
"It's sort of good to know where I'll be going next week and what I'll be doing.
"I'm looking forward to it."
Fellow Test squad member Cameron Green is also in doubt after suffering concussion against India.
