The Ashes 2009

Warne says McGain deserves another go

Cricinfo staff

March 27, 2009

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Shane Warne during a game of backyard cricket with Formula 1 drivers, Melbourne, March 26, 2009
Shane Warne: "The history of Ashes series is that spinners have had a big part to play in those series" © Getty Images
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Shane Warne wants Bryce McGain to be given another chance after his expensive Test debut in Cape Town last week. McGain, who flew back to Australia on Wednesday, returned 0 for 149 in 18 overs in a worrying sign for the team's already brittle spin stocks ahead of the Ashes.

"I just hope that Bryce McGain is not judged on one game," Warne told FoxSports. "He has been the best spin bowler in domestic cricket ... so hopefully they don't just discard him."

Warne texted McGain to remind the legspinner he went for 150 on his debut in 1991-92. "It is always very daunting that first Test match and something like that can happen," Warne said. "When he came onto bowl, it was a perfect time for South Africa to face him.

"They were not under pressure and they were cruising. Unfortunately that is what happens. That is sport, those things happen. It does not mean that he can't bowl."

Warne, who took 129 wickets in 22 Tests in England, said slow bowlers would be valuable for Australia during their off-season tour. "The history of Ashes series is that spinners have had a big part to play in those series for both sides," he said. "I think there will be a spinner but whether they go with an all-out pace attack ... who knows?"

© ESPN EMEA Ltd.

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