Why Noffke should face West Indies
Peter English
25-Feb-2013
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Robert Craddock, writing in the Courier-Mail, argues the case for Queensland’s Ashley Noffke to make his Test debut against West Indies next week. It is almost certain a reshuffle will have to occur to replace Michael Clarke, who stayed home due to a family death, and Simon Katich is also a contender for the spot.
Given the emotional strain Clarke has been under and the marathon two-day trip from Australia and his recent lack of cricket, the Test selectors may be reluctant to play him. If he is unable to play then Noffke, because of his valuable batting ability in a side which would feature a five-man tail, would be the logical inclusion.
New South Wales have found Josh Hazlewood, a 17-year-old bowler, who reminds officials of the young Glenn McGrath, the Daily Telegraph reports.
"If you look at Josh's height, action and his background, it's hard not to draw comparisons with McGrath," Dave Gilbert, New South Wales’ chief executive, said. "You never like to saddle a young bloke with enormous expectations, but I think you'll see some really big things from this kid in the next few years."
In the Herald Sun Jon Pierik writes Simon Taufel, the world’s No. 1 umpire, has not yet signed a new contract with the ICC.
Peter English is former Australasia editor of ESPNcricinfo