- Mar 25, 2003
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First Test XI:
Batsmen - Same top 7 as last test. Wade will want to score runs straight up or will find himself under a bit of pressure. Burns may find himself in the firing line if he really struggles or Maddinson hits the ground running in the shield and the selectors are willing play him as an opener - he has opened plenty over the years, including a bit in the last two seasons so there is no reason that isn't a viable option.
Bowlers - Haze, Cummins and Lyon with the only debate around Starc v Pattinson. I suspect the quick bowlers will probably continue rotating.
To be honest, I think it will be a pretty straight forward selection debate for the first test.
It's nice to see some good batting options outside the team for what feels like the first time in an eternity. There's a relatively high level of confidence either of Green, Maddinson or Patterson could perform if called upon during the summer. Certainly in comparison to the previous back up batsmen.
Batsmen - Same top 7 as last test. Wade will want to score runs straight up or will find himself under a bit of pressure. Burns may find himself in the firing line if he really struggles or Maddinson hits the ground running in the shield and the selectors are willing play him as an opener - he has opened plenty over the years, including a bit in the last two seasons so there is no reason that isn't a viable option.
Bowlers - Haze, Cummins and Lyon with the only debate around Starc v Pattinson. I suspect the quick bowlers will probably continue rotating.
To be honest, I think it will be a pretty straight forward selection debate for the first test.
It's nice to see some good batting options outside the team for what feels like the first time in an eternity. There's a relatively high level of confidence either of Green, Maddinson or Patterson could perform if called upon during the summer. Certainly in comparison to the previous back up batsmen.
Yep - you can skimp a bit on your #6 batsmen if he can provide a genuine fifth bowling option. But don't skimp on your bowlers to bring in a #8 batsmen.Let's top 6 averages 40 and he averages 37 - close enough when you consider his skillset.
I'd be less inclined to be that generous with the top 4 bowlers - Test cricket is about 20 wickets - you need your best 4 all the time.