Your XI for the first test against India [Archive]

GenuineMatchWinner

23 Sep 2008, 20:49

1 Phil Jaques
2 Matthew Hayden
3 Ricky Ponting
4 Michael Clarke
5 Michael Hussey
6 Shane Watson
7 Brad Haddin
8 Brett Lee
9 Mitchell Johnson
10 Stuart Clark
11 Bryce McGain

12 Simon Katich
13 Doug Bollinger
14 Peter Siddle
15 Jason Krejza

Pretty positive that this will be the XI for the first test. If Hayden is unavailable Katich will step straight in as opener. I dont think Krejza could possibly start ahead of McGain barring injury. McGain deserves first crack! Still a fairly formidable team on paper. Not obviously the side we are acustomed to seeing take the field but still very capable on paper.

OzBomber

23 Sep 2008, 22:36

1. Phil Jaques
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Mike Hussey
5. Michael Clarke
6. Simon Katich
7. Brad Haddin
8. Brett Lee
9. Peter Siddle
10. Stuart Clark
11. Bryce McGain

12. Mitchell Johnson

I'm sick on Johnson getting a game. He keeps on struggling in the tests, yet somehow gets a game.

GoDoggies

23 Sep 2008, 23:24

1. Phil Jaques
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Michael Hussey
5. Michael Clarke
6. Shane Watson
7. Brad Haddin
8. Brett Lee
9. Mitchell Johnson
10. Stuart Clark
11. Bryce McGain

Cotchin 9

23 Sep 2008, 23:46

1. Phil Jaques
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Michael Clarke
5. Michael Hussey
6. Shane Watson
7. Bradley Haddin
8. Brett Lee
9. Jason Krezja or Mitchell Johnson
10. Stuart Clark
11. Bryce McGain

Plenty of spinning options if required, McGain, Krezja, Clarke.
Clark and Lee to do bulk of the bowling and Watson to chip in aswell and maybe even Hussey.

The Sim Dog

24 Sep 2008, 00:06

Gunnar Longshanks

24 Sep 2008, 01:45

1. Phil Jaques
2. Shane Watson
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Michael Hussey
5. Michael Clarke
6. Simon Katich
7. Brad Haddin
8. Brett Lee
9. Mitchell Johnson
10. Stuart Clark
11. Bryce McGain
This is a bit weird.

Surely if Hayden misses, Katich will open and Watson will bat at #6.

Katich opened in the West Indies and did well. What's Watson done to commend himself as a Test opener?

I think Hayden will play and Watson will get the nod over Katich at #6.

Gunnar Longshanks

24 Sep 2008, 01:47

1 Phil Jaques
2 Matthew Hayden
3 Ricky Ponting
4 Michael Clarke
5 Michael Hussey
6 Shane Watson
7 Brad Haddin
8 Brett Lee
9 Mitchell Johnson
10 Stuart Clark
11 Bryce McGain
Agreed.

Ponting has given a pretty strong tip that Watson will get the nod:

http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/indvaus2008/content/story/370494.html

If everyone else is fit, there won't be any surprises.

SouthSwans

24 Sep 2008, 05:42

This is a bit weird.

Surely if Hayden misses, Katich will open and Watson will bat at #6.

Katich opened in the West Indies and did well. What's Watson done to commend himself as a Test opener?

I think Hayden will play and Watson will get the nod over Katich at #6.
Well swap Watson and Katich if you must, I believe Katich has done enough to keep Hayden out just for now.

Gunnar Longshanks

24 Sep 2008, 09:15

I believe Katich has done enough to keep Hayden out just for now.Huh?

Say that again.

I assumed you were banking on Hayden being injured, and that's why you'd included Katich.

But you're actually suggesting that Hayden be dropped? Are you serious?

Hayden is 36. If he's dropped, it's not "just for now" It would be the end of his career.

And based on what?

Since the start of 2007, Hayden has scored 559 runs at 62. Last summer against India, Hayden scored 410 runs at 82. That was the last Test series he played in. So there's nothing wrong with his form. Any argument to drop him based on his recent performances would be ridiculous.

And in India, Hayden has scored 639 runs at 61. So he's basically our best-performed batsman in a country where plenty of our accomplished bats can struggle.

But you reckon he should be dropped?

Some people. Seriously. I give up. You've lost your marbles. Which showbag do you get these ideas in?

likka

24 Sep 2008, 10:24

Hayden
Jaques
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Katich
Haddin
Lee
Johnson
McGain
Clark

Agree... I think playing Watson in the first test ahead of Katich would be a mistake.

Watson to six and Katich to open if Hayden isn't fit.
Agree, but if Haydos isn't fit for the first test he shouldn't be there.

pluga_4

24 Sep 2008, 12:28

big footy's XI for the first test:

hayden (10 votes)
jaques (11)
ponting (11)
m hussey (11)
m clarke (11)
watson (8)
haddin (11)
lee (11)
johnson (10.5)
s clark (11)
mcgain (10)

katich (4)
krejza (1.5)
siddle (0)
bollinger (0)

*safe to say bollinger and siddle will miss out (providing no injuries/illness leading up to the test match)
*seems that mcgain is the preffered spinner and test cap 402.

*the number 6 spot has watson just ahead of katich and seems to be the only debatable position.
*the only other debatable is whether m hussey or m clarke who bats at 4 & 5? why people have moved m hussey down to 5 is beyond me. or is it more the case that m clarke has stepped up to the plate and warrants another stint back at 4?

eth-dog

24 Sep 2008, 14:07

Jaques
Hayden
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Watson
Haddin
Lee
Johnson
Clark
McGain

Blue Dimension

24 Sep 2008, 15:01

Casson isn't even in the squad.

n00b.

Hence why i said he was unfortunate. :eek:

n00b. :D:thumbsu:

Edit: I don't know how me saying he is unfortunate has anything to do with him being in the squad or not anyway! He's unfortunate never the less! So please, next time before making pathetic insulting posts, think about what you're saying, otherwise you just look stupid.

OzBomber

24 Sep 2008, 15:48

Hence why i said he was unfortunate. :eek:

n00b. :D:thumbsu:

Edit: I don't know how me saying he is unfortunate has anything to do with him being in the squad or not anyway! He's unfortunate never the less! So please, next time before making pathetic insulting posts, think about what you're saying, otherwise you just look stupid.Unfortunate for being left out of the team maybe?

Cousin Jed

24 Sep 2008, 15:55

Hayden in, Katich replaces Symonds at 6. Mcgain as the spinner.

Rest unchanged

SouthSwans

24 Sep 2008, 16:12

Huh?

Say that again.

I assumed you were banking on Hayden being injured, and that's why you'd included Katich.

But you're actually suggesting that Hayden be dropped? Are you serious?

Hayden is 36. If he's dropped, it's not "just for now" It would be the end of his career.

And based on what?

Since the start of 2007, Hayden has scored 559 runs at 62. Last summer against India, hayden scored 410 runs at 82. That was the last Test series he played in. So there's nothing wrong with his form. Any argument to drop him based on his recent performances would be ridiculous.

And in India, Hayden has scored 639 runs at 61. So he's basically our best-performed batsman in a country where plenty of our accomplished bats can struggle.

But you reckon he should be dropped?

Some people. Seriously. I give up. You've lost your marbles. Which showbag do you get these ideas in?
We need the extra bowler (Watson), Hayden has had no match fitness since the start of the year and Katich was probably our best player in the Windies. I'd be incredibly filthy if I was Katich and got left out.

Cousin Fred

24 Sep 2008, 16:14

Krezja is an absolute hack.
Watson is always injured that robot.

Leaves few options, get Siddle in.

The 747

24 Sep 2008, 18:14

We need the extra bowler (Watson), Hayden has had no match fitness since the start of the year and Katich was probably our best player in the Windies. I'd be incredibly filthy if I was Katich and got left out.

I know the NSW bias is strong but you must resist.

Katich actually cost the team more runs than he made in the West Indies tour by dropping so many catches. You can argue that all players drop catches at some point but the fact remains we were negative in the run department from Katich walking onto the field.

Secondly, I don't understand how even the most biased person could seriously suggest dropping Matthew Hayden - who has claims to be the best Test opener Australia has ever had and is easily our best player in Indian conditions - for Simon Katich. :rolleyes:

Gunnar Longshanks

24 Sep 2008, 18:48

We need the extra bowler (Watson), Hayden has had no match fitness since the start of the year and Katich was probably our best player in the Windies. I'd be incredibly filthy if I was Katich and got left out.You're crazy, mate.

You want to drop Hayden, effectively ending his career.

Katich knows full well that Hayden is an automatic selection.

DIG

24 Sep 2008, 22:12

Hayden in, Katich replaces Symonds at 6. Mcgain as the spinner.

Rest unchanged
Agree, but many posters here wouldn't have seen how well Katich went in the Windies albeit against a weaker opponent.

However if the first pitch does favour pace, and its the most likely of the 4 to, then Watson will play and need to take his chance.

When they start doctoring pitches and tearing our middle-order a new hole with their spinners, the benefits of Watson over Katich could become dubious, Pup would start getting more overs so why the need for 4 quicks - unless they'd seriously consider Krezja in tandem with McGain??

Time will tell. I hope whoever gets the gig at #6 fires well.

GenuineMatchWinner

24 Sep 2008, 22:55

Agree, but many posters here wouldn't have seen how well Katich went in the Windies albeit against a weaker opponent.

However if the first pitch does favour pace, and its the most likely of the 4 to, then Watson will play and need to take his chance.

When they start doctoring pitches and tearing our middle-order a new hole with their spinners, the benefits of Watson over Katich could become dubious, Pup would start getting more overs so why the need for 4 quicks - unless they'd seriously consider Krezja in tandem with McGain??

Time will tell. I hope whoever gets the gig at #6 fires well.

I saw how well Katich played in the Windies, he had a great tour, however i think that Katich himself knew that it was only going to be temporary and i dont think there was any amount of runs he could of made on that tour that could of held Hayden out of the team for good.
Having said that we have seen people have great games then drop out of the side. Brad Hodge was churning out the runs when he had to step aside. More comically Jason Gillespie made a double ton then got dropped :p
I believe that Watson should get the nod, that gives us the four quicks which even though not as effective, will make it a more even work load for the quick bowlers, i would rather see Clarke bowl in tandem with McGain than play Krezja and drop one of the quicks.
Lee - Quicker and leader
Clark - Line & length
Johnson - Left arm option
Watson - Workhorse / hussle and bussle bowler

That makes four bowlers although a couple have similar traits, also have the subtle differences that will give Ponting options on indian decks.

SouthSwans

25 Sep 2008, 00:41

I know the NSW bias is strong but you must resist.I'm Victorian pal.

The 747

25 Sep 2008, 11:53

I'm Victorian pal.

Then I find your call for Hayden to be dropped in favour of Katich inexplicable. I assumed was NSW bias but now I am stumped :confused:

davey_magik

25 Sep 2008, 11:56

Hayden
Jaques
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Katich
Haddin
Lee
Johnson
McGain
Clark

If Haydos misses Watto to 6 and Katich opens.

Cousin Jed

25 Sep 2008, 11:59

McGain can't even bowl at the moment which is a bit of a worry.

saintsownthedome

25 Sep 2008, 17:40

McGain can't even bowl at the moment which is a bit of a worry.

He'll be right by the first tour game (I think Oct 2). No probs there.

Lenny29

25 Sep 2008, 19:59

Surely on turning decks you wouldn't take in 3 quicks + Watson, you'd go for Katich & Clarke to share the second spinner's role.

Wouldn't you?

Perth Swans

26 Sep 2008, 09:26

Everyone being fit:

01 Phil Jaques
02 Matthew Hayden
03 Rick Ponting (c)
04 Michael Hussey
05 Michael Clarke (vc)
06 Shane Watson
07 Brad Haddin (wk)
08 Brett Lee
09 Mitchell Johnson
10 Stuart Clark
11 Bryce McGain/Jason Krejza
--------------------------------------
12 Simon Katich
--------------------------------------
13 Jason Krejza/Bryce McGain
14 Doug Bollinger
15 Peter Siddle

I think India will win the series, winning all the games except the last one.

Gunnar Longshanks

28 Sep 2008, 02:04

eth-dog

28 Sep 2008, 09:45

Katich should open, not Phil. Katich>Jaques in WI

SouthSwans

28 Sep 2008, 13:09

Katich > Jaques > Hayden.

Matty is past it.

pluga_4

28 Sep 2008, 13:25

Gunnar Longshanks

28 Sep 2008, 17:47

change of heart because you saw jaques not get a bat in the opening tour game perhaps ?Obviously.

It's not really a "change of heart", though. I'm not saying Katich should replace Jaques. I'm just saying that there are indications the selectors may be leaning that way.

Gunnar Longshanks

28 Sep 2008, 17:48

Katich > Jaques > Hayden.

Matty is past it.Based on what?

Can you point to any recent performances that suggest he is on the wane?

He didn't look past it last summer. Has he forgotten how to bat since?

GenuineMatchWinner

28 Sep 2008, 18:00

Katich > Jaques > Hayden.

Matty is past it.

:eek: That is a pretty silly observation at this point. You have to give him at least the first 2 tests of the series before you can judge something like that.
Sure he has been injured in recent times, but u still dont forget how to hold a bat. Hayden is all class and the true classy players step back in and perform.
Still one of our most dominate, experienced and feared batsmen in world cricket and also has the most success in the sub continent.
At this stage it clearly should be. Hayden > > Jaques / Katich. Hayden is as close to an automatic selection as you can get in international cricket. Still believe that if Jaques is 100% he will get the nod in the starting XI.

Gunnar Longshanks

28 Sep 2008, 19:09

Still believe that if Jaques is 100% he will get the nod in the starting XI.How do you explain Katich opening in the tour match?

Surely we'd be getting as much time at the wicket into Jaques as we could if he was the preferred opener.

Cousin Jed

28 Sep 2008, 19:46

Jacques had a sore back.

You didn't seriously think he had been dropped did you?

DeadlyAkkuret

28 Sep 2008, 19:46

I thought Jaques didn't open because he was injured.

Gunnar Longshanks

28 Sep 2008, 19:51

Jacques had a sore back.

You didn't seriously think he had been dropped did you?I didn't know his back was so sore that he would miss the tour match.

If that's the case, might he miss the First Test?

DIG

29 Sep 2008, 12:38

Of course Jaques won't be dropped on form. FFS wasn't his last test innings a century?!

They've invested this much into him, would be a massive step backwards to drop him with Hayden's retirement also on the horizon.

Blue Dimension

29 Sep 2008, 15:35

Jacques won't be going anywhere, simple as that.

Gunnar Longshanks

29 Sep 2008, 20:34

Jacques won't be going anywhere, simple as that.I don't know that it is as simple as that.

If it's a choice between Katich and Jaques to partner Hayden, I don't think Jaques is an automatic selection. Not in India. And not when a bit of extra bowling might be useful.

Jaques is probably going to open the batting for Australia for many years, but just in this series, Katich might be preferred. It's not as unlikely as you're suggesting.

Blue Dimension

29 Sep 2008, 23:04

I don't know that it is as simple as that.

If it's a choice between Katich and Jaques to partner Hayden, I don't think Jaques is an automatic selection. Not in India. And not when a bit of extra bowling might be useful.

Jaques is probably going to open the batting for Australia for many years, but just in this series, Katich might be preferred. It's not as unlikely as you're suggesting.

Won't happen Gunnar ;)

Jaques will play. Katich will be the backup batsman, but i doubt he'll even get a hit unless someone severely stumbles in form or gets injured.

The Australian selectors don't take after the English ones :p

saj_21

30 Sep 2008, 09:01

Hayden
Jaques (Katich if Jaques is not fit)
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Katich
Haddin
Lee
Johnson
McGain (Krezja if McGain is not fit)
Clark

savage hotdog

30 Sep 2008, 11:24

Cousin Jed

30 Sep 2008, 11:43

Um yeah.......

Apart from Hogg being retired, Symonds not there, Hayden will never bat at 4 and you left out Stuart Clark.....there isn't much wrong with it.

XFactor1979

30 Sep 2008, 14:58

i think australia should be able to 10 test matches in a row this coming summer of cricket

ECHUCABOY

30 Sep 2008, 17:05

I go a little left feild and try and bat the Indians out of the game:

Katich
Jaques
Ponting
Hayden
M.Clarke
Watson
Symmonds
Haddin
Hogg
Lee
Johnson

Bats all the way down to 9 (10 and 11 are also very handy IMHO)

Hayden might just relish coming out to a softer ball.

What's everyone else think??

Are you three years old or something??? Read a newspaper every once and a while......

Ian Chappells quotes from his column are very much on the money, if Australia was ever going to fall back to the pack this series will decide that. There are question marks surrounding McGain obviously, Watson is yet to prove himself our back up bowlers have little or no experience and Hayden and Jacques from reports could be underdone....

If those two are fit to play the first game Australia will go with Watson at 6 because they will think they need to replace an all rounder with an all rounder
I think they'll give Watson two tests max to prove himself and if he cant in comes katich....

The team if all fit and healthy will have Watson and McGain in it.......Can't wait as it is a massive series.

On a slightly different angle I watched the Greg Chapell Doco about his time at India where he dropped the senior players in particular Ganguly to try and blood some youngsters and improve Indian cricket. interesting to see Kirsten has also pissed off ganguly but stuck with Laxman, Dravid, Sehwag, Tendulkar and the captain Kumble IMO this will play into our hands as these guys have well and truly had it, and there enthusiasm is really down.

On the flip side the aussies have McGain, Watson, Katich and Haddin who will inject a hell of alot of enthusiasm to the side...enjoy!

Blue Dimension

1 Oct 2008, 17:58

Mcgain out of the First Test and is a possibility to be sent home. Throws a spanner into the works. Krejza...never seen him bowl before, but looks set to debut for Australia.

Gunnar Longshanks

1 Oct 2008, 23:18

Mcgain out of the First Test and is a possibility to be sent home. Throws a spanner into the works. Krejza...never seen him bowl before, but looks set to debut for Australia.Who would have thought that we'd be going into a Test series in India with Jason Krejza as our best available spinner?

Could get ugly.

Blue Dimension

1 Oct 2008, 23:36

Who would have thought that we'd be going into a Test series in India with Jason Krejza as our best available spinner?

Could get ugly.

It could be ugly for a long while unless someone can pull something out of nowhere. We would kill for a half decent spinner at the moment. You look at teams like India and Sri Lanka who have so many and you just wonder when the next time we'll have a quality one representing us.

Ponting has rated him (Krejza) for a while though, hence why i believe he was brought onto this tour. Would be amazing if he could stand up and take the opportunity by the scruff of the neck.

LIONS then DAYLIGHT

2 Oct 2008, 00:52

Who would have thought that we'd be going into a Test series in India with Jason Krejza as our best available spinner?

Could get ugly.

Oh, Little gunnar hasnt got statistics to back up this selection, so he immediately rights the player in question off. :D

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 04:06

Oh, Little gunnar hasnt got statistics to back up this selection, so he immediately rights the player in question off. :DHuh?

Look at Krezja's first-class numbers. Hardly inspiring. Those statistics suggest Krezja isn't Test class.

I don't think it's controversial or overly negative to point out that the cupboard is pretty bare in the spin department, or that this is the series where that deficiency will hurt us most.

Whichever way you look at it, Krezja is a spinner with a suspect pedigree dumped right in the deep end, debuting against a side that plays spin well on their home turf. If that's "writing him off", so be it. I just think of it as stating the facts that few would disagree with.

I think what's most bizarre about your post is that you're not actually making any counter-points. You haven't expressed any opinion of your own. It's like you're exaggerating and misrepresenting my comments just for the sake of it, as though doing that constitutes an argument in its own right. It doesn't.

Try again.

ECHUCABOY

2 Oct 2008, 09:47

A bloke called Shane Warne had only played a few sheffield sheild games and played with a fat gut, mullet and a hardly insprining average....apparently Kezja can bowl the one that gies the other way..and if anyone saw a couple of the matches India V Sri Lanka they would have seen how much the Indians struggled against Mendes and the one that went the other way...

How about we just wait and see.....

Besides the only test series Australia won in India was won by the fast bowlers and not the spinners. Gillespie, McGrath and Kaspowicz were all unbelievable and with Damien Martyn won Australia that series.

Also Warnes average (and im not sure if MacGill played too many tests over there) was terrible in India. Indians play spin well and struggle against quality pace.

Lee is flying, Clark is the best bowler in the world just about and JOhnson while unproven did some of his best work against india in india in a one day series and has the ability to get the big name players.

Add to that an ageing Indian batting line up and I think you'll see Australia battle hard but come home with the chocolates...;)

Cousin Jed

2 Oct 2008, 16:04

My apologies Gunnar

likka

2 Oct 2008, 17:21

Katich preferred as Hayden's opening partner ahead of a fit Jaques for the second warm up game.

Doesn't look good for Jaques chances for the first test match, all but confirms Watson at 6 though.

Katich
Hayden
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Watson
Haddin
Lee
Krezja
Johnson
Clark

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 18:51

A bloke called Shane Warne had only played a few sheffield sheild games and played with a fat gut, mullet and a hardly insprining average....apparently Kezja can bowl the one that gies the other way..and if anyone saw a couple of the matches India V Sri Lanka they would have seen how much the Indians struggled against Mendes and the one that went the other way...

How about we just wait and see.....Do we have to fall back on Warne's example every time a guy comes from nowhere to play for Australia?

What about all the guys who got picked, did nothing and never played another Test?

I reckon there are more of them than there are Shane Warnes, but I don't hear you invoking their example.

These are the facts: Krezja hasn't excelled at FC level - far from it. He's been picked only because we have no decent spinners available. He'll be debuting in India.

You can spin that into, "how about Shane Warne?"

But - call me cynical - when I put those facts together, I conclude that Krezja has a mountain to climb. Good luck to him. I don't want him to fail. But he's up against it.

Blue Dimension

2 Oct 2008, 19:01

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 19:08

Not preferred, Jaques is still injured isn't he?Well, when it comes to picking the side for the First Test, do you reckon they'll go for the guy who's played both the warm-up matches, or the guy who hasn't had a hit since getting off the plane?

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 19:41

Krezja is getting spanked by the Indian PM XI.

Going for well over 6 runs an over.

Maybe someone will try to hit him for six, but top edge it and get caught.

likka

2 Oct 2008, 20:02

Not preferred, Jaques is still injured isn't he?

Not according to a Fox Sports article claiming he is fit for this match but was not selected.

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,24436101-23212,00.html

Interesting bit at the end where Katich has been instructed to work on his bowling in the nets. The lack of a test quality spinner really has the selectors spooked. Krezja bowling pies against PM XI wouldn't be helping matters.

DIG

2 Oct 2008, 20:08

I just hope Krezja's gonna be to handle it if he gets slaughtered come the first test. It's no good to anyone if they play him before he's ready and he never recovers.

But hey, good on the selectors for taking a punt. It's not like there's an obvious alternative out there who they're overlooking.

likka

2 Oct 2008, 20:17

Will Krezja be selected no matter how badly he bowls in the lead up matches to the first test?

DIG

2 Oct 2008, 20:23

Will Krezja be selected no matter how badly he bowls in the lead up matches to the first test?
It's looking ugly!

Would it be unthinkable to just say ah ****it, fatten out the batting and rely on the part-timers - especially given Pups probably our best spinner now?

Hayden
Jaques
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Katich
Watson
Haddin
Lee
MJ
Clark

There's still 6 bowling options there if you include Katich.

I doubt it, but Krezja is getting destroyed at the minute.

RooBuoy

2 Oct 2008, 20:30

0/97 from 16 overs at the moment. Surely he won't get a gig with Australia with that insipid performance.

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 20:33

0/97 from 16 overs at the moment. Surely he won't get a gig with Australia with that insipid performance.I still reckon Krezja will get a run.

But it's a fair question - if Clarke, Katich and Watson play, do we need Krezja?

Wouldn't we be better off picking Siddle as a fourth specialist quick?

likka

2 Oct 2008, 20:41

I still reckon Krezja will get a run.

But it's a fair question - if Clarke, Katich and Watson play, do we need Krezja?

Wouldn't we be better off picking Siddle as a fourth specialist quick?

Not the way Ponting captains... if the fourth quick is not going to be used much we are better off playing an extra batsman.

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 20:59

Not the way Ponting captains... if the fourth quick is not going to be used much we are better off playing an extra batsman.But surely the fourth quick would get more of a work-out without that specialist spinner.

Either way, I reckon Krezja's value is questionable.

Blue Dimension

2 Oct 2008, 21:08

I still reckon Krezja will get a run.

But it's a fair question - if Clarke, Katich and Watson play, do we need Krezja?

Wouldn't we be better off picking Siddle as a fourth specialist quick?

Well the way he's going, it's becoming more doubtful by the minute. Pathan has just walloped him down the ground again.

17 overs in excess of 100 runs.

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 21:14

Well the way he's going, it's becoming more doubtful by the minute. Pathan has just walloped him down the ground again.

17 overs in excess of 100 runs.Would be a big call to start a Test series in India without a specialist spinner.

Unless we install Michael Clarke as our first-choice spinner and then include an extra bat or an extra quick.

Either way, there are some big selection decisions to make.

Gunnar Longshanks

2 Oct 2008, 22:44

I'm starting to think Katich may open the batting instead of Jaques.

It would be a tough call to drop Jaques, but Katich opened in the tour match ahead of Jaques and top scored in the first innings.

He made a pile of runs in the West Indies and he's played in India before.

His bowling might come in handy as well.

I wonder if Jaques might get squeezed out?Jacques had a sore back.

You didn't seriously think he had been dropped did you?

Of course Jaques won't be dropped on form.
Won't happen Gunnar ;)

Jaques will play. Katich will be the backup batsman, but i doubt he'll even get a hit unless someone severely stumbles in form or gets injured.

Crik: Katich won "bat-off" with Jaques: Nielsen

By Daniel Brettig

HYDERABAD, India, Oct 2 AAP - Australian coach Tim Nielsen tonight revealed that Simon Katich pushed ahead of Phil Jaques in the openers' pecking order by making consecutive centuries against the West Indies earlier this year.

At the time, Katich thought he was merely a stand-in while Matthew Hayden recovered from an Achilles problem. But Nielsen said he and Jaques had effectively been pitted in a "bat-off" to decide who would partner Hayden here in India.

Katich was chosen ahead of Jaques for today's tour match against an Indian Board President's XI in Hyderabad, sealing his place in the team for the first Test in Bangalore next week.

"Mainly the selectors thought that Katto and Jaquesy pretty much had a bat-off in the West Indies," Nielsen said tonight.

"We didn't picture it that way at the time, but they thought Katto was playing extremely well.

"He made hundreds in Antigua and Barbados, the last couple of Tests of the series, he's come off a stellar summer in Australia and is in such good form that they just thought he may have edged himself in front of Jaquesy as the second choice opening batsman behind Matthew.

"It's a nice position to be in when you've got three quality opening batsmen, unfortunately three doesn't go into two, so the choice they made was to go with Simon this time."

Nielsen said 33-year-old Katich's left-arm wrist spin and marginally better fielding had also helped him to ease in front of his NSW teammate Jaques.

"It's just the whole package," Nielsen said.

"Katto can bowl spinners if we need him to. He didn't bowl today.

"He's a good fielder and player. I'm not saying Jaquesy doesn't do those things, but just at the moment the feeling is that Simon is maybe playing a bit better."

Katich's Indian experience -- he deputised successfully at No.3 for the injured Ricky Ponting on Australia's victorious 2004 tour in India -- is also thought to be a factor in his inclusion.

AAP

didak04

2 Oct 2008, 23:00

Crik: Katich won "bat-off" with Jaques: Nielsen

By Daniel Brettig

HYDERABAD, India, Oct 2 AAP - Australian coach Tim Nielsen tonight revealed that Simon Katich pushed ahead of Phil Jaques in the openers' pecking order by making consecutive centuries against the West Indies earlier this year.

At the time, Katich thought he was merely a stand-in while Matthew Hayden recovered from an Achilles problem. But Nielsen said he and Jaques had effectively been pitted in a "bat-off" to decide who would partner Hayden here in India.

Katich was chosen ahead of Jaques for today's tour match against an Indian Board President's XI in Hyderabad, sealing his place in the team for the first Test in Bangalore next week.

"Mainly the selectors thought that Katto and Jaquesy pretty much had a bat-off in the West Indies," Nielsen said tonight.

"We didn't picture it that way at the time, but they thought Katto was playing extremely well.

"He made hundreds in Antigua and Barbados, the last couple of Tests of the series, he's come off a stellar summer in Australia and is in such good form that they just thought he may have edged himself in front of Jaquesy as the second choice opening batsman behind Matthew.

"It's a nice position to be in when you've got three quality opening batsmen, unfortunately three doesn't go into two, so the choice they made was to go with Simon this time."

Nielsen said 33-year-old Katich's left-arm wrist spin and marginally better fielding had also helped him to ease in front of his NSW teammate Jaques.

"It's just the whole package," Nielsen said.

"Katto can bowl spinners if we need him to. He didn't bowl today.

"He's a good fielder and player. I'm not saying Jaquesy doesn't do those things, but just at the moment the feeling is that Simon is maybe playing a bit better."

Katich's Indian experience -- he deputised successfully at No.3 for the injured Ricky Ponting on Australia's victorious 2004 tour in India -- is also thought to be a factor in his inclusion.

AAP

Actually was asking why Jaques wasn't playing in another thread and was told he was injured.

I think it is a good move by the selectors and Katich has been rewarded for his recent good form. Also adds another bowling option which is very handy considering the lack of quality in our spin bowling ranks currently.

Best of luck to Katich, hopefully he can make the spot his own similar to Justin Langer's late career move to the top of the batting order

Bomber Bears

2 Oct 2008, 23:44

I'm still amused that one of them has to make way for the great all round talent of Shane ****ing Watson. We already have mediocre quicks in the side (Johnson), and good batsmen (jaques hayden ponting clarke hussey katich), he is not required.

Dixie Flatline

3 Oct 2008, 10:50

1. ML Hayden
2. SM Katich
3. RT Ponting (c)
4. MEK Hussey
5. MJ Clarke
6. SR Watson
7. BJ Haddin (wk)
8. B Lee
9. MG Johnson
10. SR Clark
11. JJ Krejza

12. PA Jaques

DIG

3 Oct 2008, 13:20

Crik: Katich won "bat-off" with Jaques: Nielsen

By Daniel Brettig

HYDERABAD, India, Oct 2 AAP - Australian coach Tim Nielsen tonight revealed that Simon Katich pushed ahead of Phil Jaques in the openers' pecking order by making consecutive centuries against the West Indies earlier this year.

At the time, Katich thought he was merely a stand-in while Matthew Hayden recovered from an Achilles problem. But Nielsen said he and Jaques had effectively been pitted in a "bat-off" to decide who would partner Hayden here in India.

Katich was chosen ahead of Jaques for today's tour match against an Indian Board President's XI in Hyderabad, sealing his place in the team for the first Test in Bangalore next week.

"Mainly the selectors thought that Katto and Jaquesy pretty much had a bat-off in the West Indies," Nielsen said tonight.

"We didn't picture it that way at the time, but they thought Katto was playing extremely well.

"He made hundreds in Antigua and Barbados, the last couple of Tests of the series, he's come off a stellar summer in Australia and is in such good form that they just thought he may have edged himself in front of Jaquesy as the second choice opening batsman behind Matthew.

"It's a nice position to be in when you've got three quality opening batsmen, unfortunately three doesn't go into two, so the choice they made was to go with Simon this time."

Nielsen said 33-year-old Katich's left-arm wrist spin and marginally better fielding had also helped him to ease in front of his NSW teammate Jaques.

"It's just the whole package," Nielsen said.

"Katto can bowl spinners if we need him to. He didn't bowl today.

"He's a good fielder and player. I'm not saying Jaquesy doesn't do those things, but just at the moment the feeling is that Simon is maybe playing a bit better."

Katich's Indian experience -- he deputised successfully at No.3 for the injured Ricky Ponting on Australia's victorious 2004 tour in India -- is also thought to be a factor in his inclusion.

AAP
I think it's a huge step backwards. Our selectors seem to be jumping at shadows and fiddling with the stability which has made the side so stronger for so long.

It was all good using Katich as a makeshift opener against the pop-gun, pathetic Windies attack but he'll find the seaming new ball from Ishant and co a much tougher proposition. Would be MUCH more suited as a #6 option only where he's more likely to face spinners.

I've been comfortable for years that Hilditch and friends have gotten it right 95% of the time but if Australia lose the first test with Watson, Krezja and Katich all failing, the selectors will have a lot to answer for.

ECHUCABOY

3 Oct 2008, 16:01

Do we have to fall back on Warne's example every time a guy comes from nowhere to play for Australia?

What about all the guys who got picked, did nothing and never played another Test?

I reckon there are more of them than there are Shane Warnes, but I don't hear you invoking their example.

These are the facts: Krezja hasn't excelled at FC level - far from it. He's been picked only because we have no decent spinners available. He'll be debuting in India.

You can spin that into, "how about Shane Warne?"

But - call me cynical - when I put those facts together, I conclude that Krezja has a mountain to climb. Good luck to him. I don't want him to fail. But he's up against it.

What do you suppose Australia does then, not play any spinners and not try any new spinners?? This is the first time I have used Shane Warne as an example is this way and think there is a valid point in what I said.

Krejza can bowl the one that goes the other way, name me 5 blokes who can do that in the world.....there is a fair bit of hype surrounding him and his version of spin bowling (much like Warne). How many Australian debutant spinners have brought something unique to their first test??? Not many except maybe one and do you know what his name was??????????????:o

LIONS then DAYLIGHT

3 Oct 2008, 16:13

I think it's a huge step backwards. Our selectors seem to be jumping at shadows and fiddling with the stability which has made the side so stronger for so long.

It was all good using Katich as a makeshift opener against the pop-gun, pathetic Windies attack but he'll find the seaming new ball from Ishant and co a much tougher proposition. Would be MUCH more suited as a #6 option only where he's more likely to face spinners.

I've been comfortable for years that Hilditch and friends have gotten it right 95% of the time but if Australia lose the first test with Watson, Krezja and Katich all failing, the selectors will have a lot to answer for.

WTF, Jacques had an average/good tour of the West Indies while Katich had an outstanding one.

I personally think Katich would be better equipped to handle any seaming ball, Katich also offers a better fielding option as well as a bowling option.

Its alright to critise but put forward some alternative options, if you dont want Watson, Katich and Krezja in the side then who do you want?

Typical flog on BF, critizing selections but not offering any alternative options.

LIONS then DAYLIGHT

3 Oct 2008, 16:16

I think Krezja should play, we need to take a chance and not baulk at one bad innings from Krezja. The guy can get the ball to rip and he can get one to straighten. He should play.

DIG

3 Oct 2008, 17:40

Typical flog on BF, critizing selections but not offering any alternative options.

Settle down princess, i'm always putting up lineups on this forum.

WTF, Jacques had an average/good tour of the West Indies while Katich had an outstanding one.

You're only as good as your last tour right? Now THAT's the typical BF flog's selection strategy. :rolleyes:

Its alright to critise but put forward some alternative options, if you dont want Watson, Katich and Krezja in the side then who do you want?.

I'd prefer to see them open with Jaques, play Katich at #6, and play Siddle (who's actually shown some decent form) instead of Krezja. No point playing a spinner for the sake of it, there's gotta be a point where your next quick is better than your best spinner, and i think we've reached it.

LondonCalling

3 Oct 2008, 18:48

1> Hayden
2> Katich
3> Ponting
4> Hussey
5> Clarke
6> Watson
7> Haddin
8> Lee
9> Johnson
10> Clark
11> Siddle

Gunnar Longshanks

3 Oct 2008, 19:17

1. ML Hayden
2. SM Katich
3. RT Ponting (c)
4. MEK Hussey
5. MJ Clarke
6. SR Watson
7. BJ Haddin (wk)
8. B Lee
9. MG Johnson
10. SR Clark
11. JJ Krejza

12. PA JaquesNo kidding.

Gunnar Longshanks

3 Oct 2008, 19:21

What do you suppose Australia does then, not play any spinners and not try any new spinners?? Er, no.

If we absolutely need to play a specialist spinner in India, then I guess Krezja is the guy. But I think he will struggle.

This is the first time I have used Shane Warne as an example is this way and think there is a valid point in what I said.It isn't.

Warne is an extreme, one-off example.

Nothing about his career is analogous to Krezja's. Why pretend otherwise?

Krejza can bowl the one that goes the other way, name me 5 blokes who can do that in the world.....there is a fair bit of hype surrounding him and his version of spin bowling (much like Warne). How many Australian debutant spinners have brought something unique to their first test??? Not many except maybe one and do you know what his name was??????????????:oStop talking up Krezja by comparing him to Warne.

It's erroneous, stupid and unfair to Krezja.

ECHUCABOY

6 Oct 2008, 11:15

Er, no.

If we absolutely need to play a specialist spinner in India, then I guess Krezja is the guy. But I think he will struggle.

It isn't.

Warne is an extreme, one-off example.

Nothing about his career is analogous to Krezja's. Why pretend otherwise?

Stop talking up Krezja by comparing him to Warne.

It's erroneous, stupid and unfair to Krezja.

It realy is annoying how you break everything said up and comment on each little bit. Im simply saying this is the first time in a long time an australian spinner has brought something new and different to the table....in saying that after his performance and Cam White coming over he may not even get a game

Blue Dimension

6 Oct 2008, 15:47

Since the PXI game and injury to Mcgain I feel this should be the XI, despite the fact Katich will play (and fail)

Hayden
Jaques
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Watson
Haddin
White
Lee
Johnson
Clark

The 747

6 Oct 2008, 20:18

I think Krezja should play, we need to take a chance and not baulk at one bad innings from Krezja. The guy can get the ball to rip and he can get one to straighten. He should play.

But he can't (on present evidence) bowl a decent line and length. The rest of that stuff is useless without line and length in the first place.

The 747

6 Oct 2008, 20:19

Since the PXI game and injury to Mcgain I feel this should be the XI, despite the fact Katich will play (and fail)

Hayden
Jaques
Ponting
Hussey
Clarke
Watson
Haddin
White
Lee
Johnson
Clark

Correct weight (including the Katich comment) :thumbsu:

DK#8

6 Oct 2008, 21:16

If White plays it will be interesting to see what order White, Watson and Haddin bat

riewoldt4aa2011

6 Oct 2008, 22:25

If White plays it will be interesting to see what order White, Watson and Haddin bat

Watto at 6 Haddin at 7 and Whitey at 8.

Gunnar Longshanks

6 Oct 2008, 22:28

It realy is annoying how you break everything said up and comment on each little bit. Yeah, I can see how someone engaging your comments specifically might be a bit of a hassle for you.

Im simply saying this is the first time in a long time an australian spinner has brought something new and different to the table....So what?

Is that automatically a good thing?

If anything, it's a reflection of the fact that our spin cupboard is so bare that we're now playing guys who are totally unproven.

Oh, "new and different". Euphemisms.

i_hate_scams

7 Oct 2008, 09:25

seriously starting to look like our one day squad, only really need to add Bracken, Hopes and maybe tait and there you go.

ECHUCABOY

7 Oct 2008, 11:26

Yeah, I can see how someone engaging your comments specifically might be a bit of a hassle for you.

So what?

Is that automatically a good thing?

If anything, it's a reflection of the fact that our spin cupboard is so bare that we're now playing guys who are totally unproven.

Oh, "new and different". Euphemisms.

Ohhh get of your high horse would you....Just because you think everyone is intellectually retarded compared to yourself doesn't mean you shouldn't think before typing things.......

The majority of quality spinners are unproven when given a shot at test cricket, because quality spinners are so rare. Name me some current spinners who have done there time in domestic cricket for 5 or 6 years before getting a test birth.

I'll give you a few that were thrown in the deep end. Panesar, Mendes, Warne, Kumble, Murali, Harbajan, Kartik.................