Australia consider using 5 bowlers for SCG Test against South Africa
Australian coach Andrew Macdonald says he is “very happy” with the prospect of bringing five bowlers to the final Test against South Africa at the SCG.
Key Point:
- Australia have yet to decide their Third Test bowling attack against Protea.
- Ashton agar can be included as a second rotation option
- Australian coach Andrew Macdonald doesn’t rule out Lance Morris’ Test debut
However, McDonald said all selection options remain on the table as Australia has already claimed a series win before the third Test, which starts Wednesday.
Testing at the spin-friendly SCG has sparked debate each year as to whether Australia should reconfigure its traditional bowling set-up.
This year, we have four test tours scheduled in India, so this discussion is more relevant.
After Mitchell Stark and Cameron Green were ruled out of SCG testing due to injuryMcDonald called spin bowling all-rounder Ashton Agger to his team.
“Game time at Test level is always beneficial and if it concerns future tours, it definitely makes sense,” McDonald said.
McDonald added that while he can’t guarantee Agher’s fifth Test cap, reducing his pace attack isn’t mandatory if left-handers are to be included on the side.
Alex Carey posted his first Test century batting in Melbourne at seven and McDonald said the performance gave the wicketkeeper confidence that he could make way for five bowlers if needed. I was.
If McDonald takes that option, it will be the first time since 2013 that Australia have faced five specialist bowlers in a home test.
“There are so many options depending on what the surface offers in terms of offensive balance,” McDonald said.
“It could be two spinners and two quicks. We could play a slightly more aggressive team with six Alex Carry and five bowlers playing.
“Alternatively, you can play what we call the Australian regular structure, where you have three quicks and one spinner, along with some secondary part-time spin options.”
Playing five bowlers could also open up a spot for Western Australia’s Quicklane Morris, who was called up to the squad ahead of last month’s second Test against the West Indies.
Captain Pat Cummins, Scott Vohland and Josh Hazlewood are the most likely picks in a five-bowler scenario, but Morris’ blistering pace is the point of difference and he would be a fitting replacement for Stark.
“All scenarios are under consideration,” McDonald said.
“If you feel you need some airspeed, the Lance is obvious. The circumstances will decide that.”
AAP
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-01/australia-looking-at-bowling-options-ahead-of-scg-test/101820564 Australia consider using 5 bowlers for SCG Test against South Africa
