Watson wants to be Test opener

The duel between Chris Rogers and Phil Jaques to become Australia's next Test opener could become a three-man fight, with Shane Watson setting his sights on replacing Justin Langer at the top of the order. If the move was successful, it would mean Australia could have two allrounders in their Test team with Andrew Symonds a chance to bat at No. 6.

Watson, who has opened eight times in one-day internationals and has been impressive in that role, has volunteered to transfer the skill to Test cricket. "There is a major opportunity at the moment at the top of the order, and I definitely believe I have got the game and the technique to do the job," Watson told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"I have had a chat with a few people about it, although nothing concrete was agreed on. I just said that there is an opportunity there after Justin's retirement and I'd like to put my hand up and see what they say.

"I know I can bat up the top of the order. I've done it for Tasmania, Queensland, and for the Australian one-day side. Like anything in life, you see where opportunities are and you go for them. Obviously I missed a big opportunity last summer, and I'm pretty keen to make the most of opportunities now."

Rogers, whose 1202 Pura Cup runs were the most of any player last season, was expected to vie with Jaques, who was second on the list and has already played two Tests. However Australia have a break from Tests until November so it would be no surprise if players like Watson and Brad Hodge move up the order in the opening Pura Cup rounds next season to press their claims.

Tim Nielsen, Australia's new coach, said Watson had proved he could face the new ball in limited-overs matches. "You always look at all the options in front of you, but if Watto is keen to adapt his game to fit into the team, you'd be mad not to encourage it," Nielsen said.

"It's great that he is willing to fill any available role to play for Australia. That's what you want in a player. Rogers and Jaques have shown a lot of consistency over the past few seasons and they'd be hoping to be first cabs off the rank. There is also an argument that a move towards Watto would give the team more flexibility."