Thaindian News

Melbourne, Dec 21 (IANS) Australia’s chief cricket selector John Inverarity admitted that the Big Bash Twenty20 could compromise the preparation of players vying for a Test team berth this summer.

The Big Bash runs from December 16-January 28 and it means that a player called up for the fourth Test against India in Adelaide slated for January 24 will not have a first-class game for more than six weeks.

Inverarity is worried that if injuries or bad form strike the Test team against India, the replacements wouldn’t be adequately prepared.

“Of course, it’s of concern. From the preparation of a Test team, the current situation is not ideal but that’s the way it is. You’ve got to deal with it as best you can, it’s as simple as that,” said Inverarity.

Usman Khawaja and Phil Hughes, who were both dropped for the Boxing Day Test against India, now have a tough task of forcing their way back into the side.

Inverarity also asked the country’s best batsmen to work on their bowling skills to give the Test team greater flexibility down the track. Inverarity wants batsman of the future to become even more competent with the ball.

“I think all of us on the selection panel hold the view that it’s very desirable to have some of your six best batsmen as decent bowlers,” he said.

“You look back at some of the Australian teams when Steve Waugh was amongst the best batsmen but also a very handy bowler. All-rounders are like gold and also batsmen who are very competent bowlers - Greg Chappell, Doug Walters, Greg Blewett and here in WA Tom Moody - was a prime example. It does make a huge difference if a couple of your batsmen are good bowlers. We’ve talked to the national talent managers in each state and we’ll certainly be emphasising that,” he said.