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Hauritz included in Australia Test squad Wisden CricInfo staff - August 24, 2002
Australia have retained Mark Waugh in their 14-man squad for the Test series against Pakistan in October, and have given a first call-up to the offspinner, Nathan Hauritz. But there is no room for Stuart MacGill, despite his fine recent form, nor for Shane Watson, the young allrounder who toured South Africa earlier in the year. Trevor Hohns, the chairman of the Australian selectors, said there was no reason to make major changes to a side that had been so successful in South Africa. He admitted it was disappointing that MacGill had to miss out, but the selectors' preference was to take one legspinner and one offspinner. "[McGill] is still very much in the mix for selection later in the year," said Hohns, adding that Hauritz's selection would fast-track his development. "His inclusion will give us some added variety in the spin bowling department." Hauritz, already a member of Australia's Champions Trophy squad, said he was thrilled to be included in the Test party. "Touring with the Test team will be a fantastic opportunity for me and it has come so soon after the selectors put me in the mix for the one-day team," he said. "The rise in my career has happened so quickly and it is going to take me a few days to calm down now that I have been included in the Test squad. I believe I'm ready for the challenge and I can't wait to get away for the next few months of cricket. "I used the South African tour to look, learn and listen and I'll take a similar approach to the Test series against Pakistan. If I'm lucky enough to get a Test berth, it will be a dream come true." Steve Waugh, currently playing for Kent in the County Championship, has been retained as captain, while his brother, Mark, keeps his place in spite of recent speculation about his international future. The details of the tour, which has been dogged by security concerns, have yet to be confirmed, although it is expected that the first Test will take place in Colombo. Australian squad Steve Waugh (capt), Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, Mark Waugh, Darren Lehmann, Damien Martyn, Adam Gilchrist (wk), Shane Warne, Jason Gillespie, Andrew Bichel, Nathan Hauritz, Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath.
© Wisden CricInfo Ltd |
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