National coach Justin Langer has confirmed Cameron Green will make his Test debut against India, if deemed fit to play on Thursday, and has also backed Matthew Wade to open Australia’s batting.
Key points:
- Langer says Wade is well regarded to have the attributes to move up the batting order
- He says a decision has not been made on out-of-form Joe Burns
- Cameron Green will also make his Test debut if deemed fit to play
Green has been in impressive batting form this season and made a hundred against India for Australia A last week, before he suffered a mild concussion while bowling.
Langer today said the 21-year-old West Australian would likely secure a baggy green, if he passes concussion tests, taking a spot in the middle order.
“He’s earned the right for selection through his performances in Sheffield Shield cricket, so if he’s fit and available then he’ll make his Test debut.”
Langer backed Wade to open the batting alongside Marcus Harris, as Joe Burns continues to struggle for form.
Burns remains under pressure for selection after he failed to fire again for Australia A at the weekend.
He’s scored just 62 runs in nine innings this season.
There had been speculation that Wade, who has never batted higher than number five in Test cricket, could move up the order.
Langer said that Wade had the attributes to handle the pressure and he was certainly an option.
“Matthew Wade is almost becoming ‘Mr Fix It’, he’s so well regarded,” he said.
“He’s a very, very important part of our team … he’s got good footwork, he’s tough and he can also counter-attack, we know how aggressive he can be.
A final call has not yet been made on Australia’s opening partnership, but Langer ruled out moving Marnus Labuschagne up the order.
“Marnus won’t be opening,” he said.
“He’s done an amazing job at number three, Steven Smith does an amazing job at number four, we’re going to try and stay as settled as possible.”
Langer admitted the recent form of Burns had made selection difficult, but he still had the backing of coaches.
“He also understands though [that] runs are the greatest currency of value to any player … we’ll make our decision on who’s going to open in the next day or so.”
Australia will take on India in the first day/night Test at Adelaide Oval this Thursday.
