George, Usman Khawaja likely to debut against Pak
By ANITuesday, July 20, 2010
SYDNEY - Pacer Peter George and batsman Usman Khawaja have outside chances of making their Test debuts as illness and injury dogged the Australian team’s build-up for the second Test against Pakistan.
Ben Hilfenhaus is yet to test out his injured left shoulder before the Headingley match while Marcus North sat out training on Monday in Leeds with a stomach upset.
Hilfenhaus injured his shoulder diving in the field on the final day of Australia’s 150-run win over Pakistan last week at Lord’s, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.
Australian vice captain Michael Clarke said the side was hopeful Hilfenhaus would be fit to play.
“I don’t think he bowled today [Monday], he saw the physio but he is certainly improving, so fingers crossed hopefully he will be right come the first day of the Test match,” Clarke said.
North missed a Test in Cape Town last year due to illness but the Australian camp is still confident he will be ready in time for the Leeds game.
If George and Khawaja were selected, it would continue the infuse of fresh talents into the Australian Test side in recent times.
Steve Smith and Tim Paine’s first game in the baggy green last week at Lord’s made it 17 Test debutants in the past two and a half years for the national side. (ANI)
