Young Australian guns to tackle Sri Lanka
A number of Australian Test hopefuls will get the chance to stake
their claim for higher honours when they play for the Prime Minister's
XI against Sri Lanka on January 30 at Canberra's Manuka Oval.
Cricket Australia Monday announced a strong squad for the match and
included in the side are a handful of players who have already tasted
international cricket in some form, along with several being touted as
future Australia players.
All-rounder Cameron White, who has played 16 one-day internationals
and has an Australian contract, will lead the side, with fellow
Victorian David Hussey as his deputy. The latter is the brother of
Australian star Mike Hussey and has been in spectacular form in domestic
cricket this year, particularly in Twenty20 matches for his state.
Hussey is one of a number of players in the team pushing for national
selection, along with contracted Tasmanian fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus,
who has played one-day cricket for Australia, Queensland paceman Ashley
Noffke and a trio of young West Australian batsmen in Luke Pomersbach,
Shaun Marsh and Luke Ronchi.
Pomersbach was plucked out of the crowd to play in the Twenty20
international against New Zealand at the WACA last month, while the
free-hitting Ronchi is tipped as Adam Gilchrist's long-term replacement
as Australian wicketkeeper.
Australian chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said the team
indicated the depth in local cricket.
"This year's side has a good mix of experience and youth to take on
what will possibly be a full strength Sri Lankan team," he said here
Monday.
"Ben Hilfenhaus, Ashley Noffke and Luke Pomersbach round out the list
of players who, along with White, have played at the highest level for
Australia and will be hoping to impress again.
"Their selection is well deserved recognition of the outstanding
season being enjoyed by Australia's exciting young talent."
The match is part of Sri Lanka's preparation for the subsequent
one-day tri-series against Australia and India.
MELBOURNE, Monday, AFP |
