Hogg hopes for end to exile
West Australian Brad Hogg doesn't believe the surplus of left-handers in the West Indies squad will help his chances of ending his six-year exile from Tests when the Caribbean series begins in Georgetown on Thursday.
AAP
08-Apr-2003
West Australian Brad Hogg doesn't believe the surplus of left-handers in the West Indies squad will help his chances of ending his six-year exile from Tests when the Caribbean series begins in Georgetown on Thursday.
Hogg has come into contention after taking nine wickets in Australia's tour-opening match against the Guyana Board President's XI, placing him within reach of his first Test cap since October 1996.
His left-arm wrist spin will turn away from the left-handers, including Windies captain Brian Lara, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Wavell Hinds, and that could be important for the Australians.
But Hogg doesn't expect that to assist him as Australian selectors decide whether to take two spinners or choose between Hogg and Stuart MacGill for the Test at the Bourda ground.
"There's been no indication," Hogg said.
"Obviously Stuey has been a quality bowler over the last decade when he's had the opportunity and I wouldn't be surprised if he does get the nod but that's out of our control.
"Whatever situation you're put in, whether you're 12th man, 15th man or playing you've still got a job to do in a touring party.
"I'm just looking forward to the opportunity of being around these guys and it's a great bunch of quality blokes and it's been a great team."
Andrew Bichel, MacGill and Hogg seem likely to fight for the final two bowling spots with pacemen Jason Gillespie and Brett Lee certain to play.
The Australians will enter the series as firm favourites, with the Windies battling more internal problems with sacked captain Carl Hooper withdrawing from the 14-man squad.
Both squads trained on Tuesday, with Windies selectors yet to announce the team which they hope can regain the Frank Worrell Trophy.