Australia’s opening batsman Matthew Hayden has an ankle injury, and is unlikely to play in the first Test against West Indies in Jamaica. Skipper Ricky Ponting described his chances as “50/50 at best.”
The Aussies will also be missing Michael Clarke for compassionate reasons, as well as the recently retired Adam Gilchrist. The re-shuffled line up is expected to see Simon Katich open with Phil Jaques, Brad Hodge to bat at 5, and a start for new ‘keeper Brad Haddin.
West Indies also have their problems – skipper Chris Gayle misses the game with a groin injury. Sarwan will lead the side in his absence.
The Test, beginning tomorrow, is the first of a three-match series. The two sides will also play five one-dayers, and a Twenty20 match. Australia are hot favourites to win the lot as they prepare for some ashes cricket next summer.
1 comment so far
1 Thomas Rooney // May 24, 2008 at 2:52 pm
The Australian side is certainly going to have a strange look to it when it comes to England next year.
With Only Hayden, Clarke and Ponting recognisable from the famous 2005 Ashes series.
Should be an exciting series, just hope England can gain some momentum before then.