Haddin excited by clash with Bangladesh

A short one-day series against Bangladesh in Darwin might not sound tempting for some of Australia’s seasoned international cricketers, but wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin can’t wait.

The three-match series, which was to be a warm-up for the now-postponed Champions Trophy, starts on Saturday. Haddin has recovered from a fractured finger suffered during the recent tour of the West Indies, on which he made his long-awaited Test debut following the retirement of Adam Gilchrist.

The 30-year-old said motivation would not be a problem.

Although the veteran of 30 one-day internationals has kept wicket for Australia at home before, it will be the first time he has done so as the country’s No.1 gloveman. “For me personally it’s another international,” he said. “It’s the first time I’ve had the opportunity to keep in Australia since Adam (Gilchrist) retired. I’m jumping at the bit to have an opportunity to play in front of an Australian crowd.”

Haddin said he tested the lingering finger injury during Australia’s two-day training camp in Brisbane without any dramas.

“I got the cast off last week, the results were good. The fracture is stable and I’m right to get back into cricket,” Haddin said.

“It was frustrating for a while because it took a little bit longer to get right.

“Over the last two days I’ve had a great chance to test it out and I’ve had no problems.” With veteran opener Matthew Hayden (achilles) ruled out of the series, the free-scoring Haddin could also find himself promoted up the order.

BRISBANE, Tuesday, AFP