Green SCG wicket could hinder Ashes hopes of Khawaja, Hughes: Watson

MELBOURNE - Australian opener Shane Watson has said that the SCG wicket, which is considered a bowlers paradise, could cast trouble for Ashes fringe players Usman Khawaja, Phillip Hughes and even Steve Smith during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match against Victoria.

Watson said the forecast of stormy conditions would make it tough to score runs in the Sheffield Shield clash, which will double as a Test selection in front of chief selector Andrew Hilditch.

Khawaja, Hughes and Smith are three players desperate for big scores if they are to make their way into the Test squad to play England, FOX Sports reports.

“I’ll be bowling as much as I would in a normal Test match, whenever I’m required. I’m pretty sure it will be bowler-friendly conditions given the weather and seeing what the nets have been like as well. I’ll definitely be making the most of the ball because it could be hard with the bat,” Watson said.

Hughes will open the batting with Watson while Khawaja is likely to come in at No. 3. Watson nominated both players as potential top-order candidates for Australia.

Watson was looking forward to being presented his first “baggy blue” by Stuart Clark, and expected an explosive match with Victoria pacers Peter Siddle and Clint McKay charging in.

“It’s always interesting fun facing Sids in the nets, he’s always got good pace with a bit of bounce and seaming it into my ribs. They’ve got a very good side so it will be a brilliant hitout for all of us and make sure we get into a good place (mentally) for the first Test,” Watson said. (ANI)