Australia has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting on January 29. Cooper Connolly has been included as one of seven slow bowling options, marking his first Test call-up. Connolly, who has previously represented Australia in limited-overs formats, joins established spinners Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann, and Nathan Lyon.

Steve Smith will captain the team in the absence of Pat Cummins, who is on paternity leave and recovering from an ankle injury. Mitchell Marsh has been dropped following his poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, while Josh Hazlewood is sidelined due to injury. Both players will focus on preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The squad also features Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vice-captain), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, MarnusLabuschagne, Nathan McSweeney, and Mitchell Starc. The series will be contested for the Warne-Muralitharan Trophy, which Australia currently holds after winning the last series in 2019.

With spin expected to play a crucial role on Sri Lankan pitches, selectors have opted for a strong spin contingent to tackle the challenges ahead. The first Test will take place at Galle International Stadium.

Australia squad for Sri Lanka Tests:

Steve Smith ©, Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, MarnusLabuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster