Peter Handscomb was handed a Test cricket lifeline on Wednesday when he was named in Australia’s squad for the upcoming tour of India, but there has been a twist.
Handscomb now faces a nervous wait and is in doubt for the tour after appearing to injury his hip while playing in the Victorian Super Slam on Tuesday night.
The 31-year-old was hit while trying to play a pull shot and while Handscomb remained at the crease, he later collapsed to the ground after hitting a six three balls later.
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Chief selector George Bailey had spoken to media on Wednesday about how deserving Handscomb was of another shot in the Test arena, although that now could be in doubt.
Handscomb has been sent for scans with hopes he sustained bruising to the hip as opposed to a potential fracture that would rule him out of contention for the India tour.
Handscomb last played for Australia in January 2019 and while no guarantee to figure in the starting XI, his experience on subcontinent pitches is a major advantage.
Handscomb, who has played 16 Tests, has been in fine touch in the domestic Sheffield Shield and was recalled for the first time since 2019, joining Matthew Renshaw as reserve batters.
“Peter Handscomb deserves his place back in the squad. His domestic form has been strong recently and Pete has proven he can perform at Test level,” said Bailey.
“His experience against spin on the subcontinent is valuable and he is also an exceptionally good close to the wicket catcher.”
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Australian captain Pat Cummins, meanwhile, told reporters earlier in the week that Handscomb has a “huge chance” in India.
“He’s played really well over in Bangladesh, and India he’s been there before and even in white-ball he’s done well over there.
“He’s obviously earned the right by scoring lots of runs in Shield cricket, so I’m sure come selection time he’ll be there or thereabouts.
“It’s always nice having a right-hander as well, as a different option, we’ve got plenty of left-handers.”
