A more balanced outfit
All things considered, Australia have chosen a handy team to tour South Africa
George Binoy
25-Feb-2013
All things considered, Australia have chosen a handy team to tour South Africa. Quibbles can be held about one or two of the minor positions, but overall the squad is as strong as circumstances permit, writes Peter Roebuck in the Witness.
To a fault, Ricky Ponting defended the old guard, but repeated setbacks reduced his influence and now the selectors have produced a bolder side lacking power but containing plenty of energy and spirit. Simon Katich and Phil Hughes will open the batting. Last week, I watched Hughes score 151 and 82 not out in the last Shield match before selection. Clearly he is not scared of the spotlight. A small, sturdy left-hander hungry for runs, Hughes has a homespun technique reliant on eye and hands.
George Binoy is an assistant editor at ESPNcricinfo