Australia Calls Up Abbott for West Indies Tests After Doggett Injury

Australia's fast bowler Brendan Doggett has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match Test series against the West Indies due to a minor hip injury, prompting his return to Australia. Sean Abbott, also uncapped in Test cricket but experienced in limited-overs formats, has been called up as Doggett's replacement. Doggett had finished the 2024-25 season strongly, taking 11 wickets in the Sheffield Shield final, and was considered a contender for his Test debut on this tour. The series, starting June 25 in Barbados, will mark the start of the World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign and includes matches in Grenada and a day-night Test in Jamaica. Australia may adjust their bowling attack depending on pitch conditions, with potential inclusion of spinner Matt Kuhnemann alongside Nathan Lyon and seamer Beau Webster for added flexibility. The team is also monitoring the fitness of Steven Smith, who suffered a finger dislocation during the WTC Final, placing his availability for the opening Test in doubt.