NZ vs AUS: Australia announce playing XI for 1st Test against New Zealand, Pat Cummins to lead power-packed unit in Wellington; check here

Australia's cricket team is gearing up for their upcoming first Test match against New Zealand in Wellington, with captain Pat Cummins confirming that Steve Smith will continue to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja. Following David Warner's retirement earlier this year, Smith has taken up the opener's role, showcasing varied results in Australia's recent Test series against the West Indies.

Despite facing setbacks in three innings, Smith managed to deliver a crucial unbeaten 91 in Brisbane's second innings, highlighting his adaptability and resilience.

Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh also included

For the opening Test at the Basin Reserve starting Thursday, Cummins announced that Australia will field an unchanged lineup, signaling confidence in their current squad. Smith's role at the top of the order is affirmed, and the team will also feature Cameron Green and Mitch Marsh, strengthening a top six that has seen some recent restructuring.

Devon Conway to miss first Test

On the other hand, New Zealand, victorious in their previous encounter against South Africa, faces a setback with opener Devon Conway sidelined due to a thumb injury sustained in the T20I series against Australia. This injury forces the Kiwi team to adjust their lineup as they head into the match.

Crucial WTC points up for grabs

New Zealand presently sits atop the ICC World Test Championship standings, with Australia in third place. The upcoming two-Test series presents Australia with a prime opportunity to climb the rankings and secure a spot in the championship final for the second consecutive time.

Australia XI: 

Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Australia Test squad: 

Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc

New Zealand Test squad: 

Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

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