Langer to lead Western Warriors

The Western Australia Cricket Association has announced a 29-man squad for the forthcoming season, with Justin Langer - when not on national duty - continuing to lead the side. Of the players chosen, six are on Cricket Australia contracts, 18 have full contracts with the state side, and five are rookies.

Two rookies under the spotlight will be Sam Howman, a right-arm medium-pace bowler from Subiaco-Floreat, and Liam Davis, an aggressive opening batsman from Scarborough.

Wayne Clark will continue as coach, having previously coached the team to two Sheffield Shield titles. New arrivals include Sean Irvine, the former Zimbabwe international, and Steve Magoffin from Queensland. Jo Angel and Paul Wilson, two stalwarts of the domestic scene over the past decade, have retired.

Cricket Australia Contracted Players for 2004-05 Justin Langer (capt), Michael Hussey, Brad Hogg, Adam Gilchrist, Damien Martyn and Brad Williams.

Senior Contracted Players for 2004-05 Ryan Campbell, Beau Casson, Michael Clark, Ben Edmondson, Sean Ervine, Murray Goodwin, Kade Harvey, Sam Howman, Steve Magoffin, Shaun Marsh, Scott Meuleman, Marcus North, Chris Rogers, Luke Ronchi, Craig Simmons, Adam Voges, Darren Wates and Peter Worthington.

Rookie Contracted Players for 2004-05 Justin Coetzee, Liam Davis, Aaron Heal, Steven Jacques and Andrew James.