Scott Boland retains spot for Boxing Day Test return against Proteas

Boxing Day Test hero Scott Boland has retained his spot in Australia’s star bowling attack and will line-up at the MCG against South Africa.

The Victorian quick will return to the scene of his famous Test debut last December, with Australia selectors opting for Boland while Josh Hazlewood, who continues his recovery from a side strain.

Captain Pat Cummins confirmed Australia would stick with the same XI that crushed the Proteas by six wickets in just two days in the first Test at the Gabba.

“We gave Joshy [Hazlewood] every chance, it just got to a stage where Joshy more than anyone else probably thought he was a bit underdone,” Cummins said at the MCG on Sunday.

“It’s probably the mark of the man that he himself thought, ‘I don’t feel quite right’ and pulled himself out of selection.

“We talk a lot about how it’s a squad mentality, and this is another great example.”

Boland has taken 25 wickets in his five Tests at the miserly average of 10.36.

The 33-year-old became an instant cult hero of Australian cricket when he ran through England with 6-7 at the MCG last year to secure man-of-the-match honours on debut to help Australia retain the Ashes.