Australia opts for blend of youth and experience for daunting India Test series

more images

more images

SYDNEY - Australian selectors have opted for a blend of young and experienced players for next month’s two-match Test series in India, the team’s last before hosting England for the Ashes.

Rookie fast bowler Peter George and teenage quick Josh Hazlewood have been named in the15-man squad, along with experienced campaigners Doug Bollinger, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mitchell Johnson and Nathan Hauritz.

“The squad we have selected sees the return from injury of Phillip Hughes and includes a very good mix of experience and new young talent with Steven Smith, Hughes and two young fast bowlers in Peter George and Josh Hazlewood,” Fox Sports quoted Andrew Hilditch, national selection panel chairman, as saying.

“All these exciting young players have the potential to have a big impact in international cricket for many years and the panel is confident they will all equip themselves well if the opportunity presents itself on this tour,” he added.

All-rounder Steven Smith has been retained following his successful Test series against Pakistan in England.

Meanwhile, regular wicket-keeper Brad Haddin is yet to recover from his elbow injury, forcing selectors to continue with Tim Paine.

Hilditch further said that he was confident that the squad named could tackle the tough tour.

“India is ranked No.1 in Test cricket and there is no harder assignment in Test cricket at the moment than playing India on their home soil,” Hilditch said.

“While it was disappointing to draw the series in England against Pakistan, the squad reflects the good performances of the team over the last 12 months as we continue to prepare for the Ashes,” he added. ustralia Squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Doug Bollinger, Peter George, Nathan Hauritz, Josh Hazlewood, Ben Hilfenhaus, Phillip Hughes, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Marcus North, Tim Paine, Steven Smith and Shane Watson. (ANI)