Hoggy into Test squad ?

[pies4ever]

Hogg forces spin review

By Robert Craddock - Fox Sports


AUSTRALIA is considering reviewing its spin plans for the Test series against Sri Lanka, with Brad Hogg pressing for inclusion in an expanded squad.


Chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns said yesterday Hogg's impressive form in the opening two one-day games had forced a rethink.

Cricket Australia will need to approve Hogg joining Shane Warne and Stuart MacGill in a three-pronged spin blitz for next month's three-Test series.

"It has been clear in the first couple of games their players are having trouble reading him," Hohns said.

"He is bowling beautifully but we didn't really know that at the time we picked the Test squad.

"We chose a 15-man squad and if we wanted him we would have to ask permission for a 16th player and would have to see how Cricket Australia felt about that.

"He bowled very well in the World Cup last year, then had a bit of a down period, but he has slowed things down a bit and is really bowling well again.

"We have to remember that they (Tests and one-dayers) are different games and, as well as he is bowling, things might be different in the Tests.

"But there is no doubt in my view our spinners have bowled as well as Sri Lanka's in the opening two games."

Hohns has been with the team for five days and has heard all the talk that the first two Tests, in Galle and Kandy, will be played on low, slow, deteriorating decks.

Hogg's left-arm wrist spin yielded 5-41 in the opening match and 0-35 in Sunday's second game.

Several batsman, particularly the tailenders, have had trouble reading Hogg's well-disguised wrong-un. The Sri Lankans were so cautious against him on Sunday they struck him for just one boundary and failed to score more than two runs off five full tosses.

The exercise would cost Australia about $30,000 as Hogg would have to be paid a tour fee


cheers bryan..!!

[commonwombat]

Hogg may struggle against the Sri Lankan top order however it is arguable that he may add more to the side than McGill. Case in point far superior fielding and batting, marginal call on bowling accuracy and control and improved team harmony.

If such were to happen, expect Stewie to again demonstrate his self-restraint and good breeding, then again some people will always run true to character. Again his recent intl form may truly indicate his future and position in the scheme of things.

Will be interesting.

[Johnson#26]