Thaindian News

Sydney, Jan.1 (ANI): Incumbent Australian spinner Nathan Hauritz said today that upcoming leg-spinner Steven Smith is definitely a Baggy Green prospect, but added that the ownership on the Australian spin position was his for the time being.

Hauritz declared he’s going nowhere as rookie Steven Smith continued his snowballing momentum towards international selection.

After taking his maiden first-class five-for at the MCG on Wednesday, leading Australia to victory over Pakistan in the first Test, Hauritz said Smith would have to wait his turn as the youngster showed rapid development with 4-13 in the Twenty20 match against Tasmania on the night of Hauritz’s breakthrough performance.

‘Steve is obviously going to be an exciting prospect for the future, there’s no doubt about it, and he’s a leg spinner, so that’s already got Australia written all over it virtually in the eyes of the public,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Hauritz, as saying.

‘The most important thing is not to put too much pressure on myself, which I have done at times by trying to get wickets to silence a few people and actually let people know I can bowl. I’ve earned this spot, and I’m here for a long time,’ he added.

Australian coach Tim Nielsen made it clear Hauritz was under no threat from Smith.

‘We need to remember that Steve’s been there as standby for Nathan for the last two Test matches, he wasn’t picked in the original teams,’ Nielsen said.

‘We’re really going in with the same team we’ve had from the three or four Test matches. It’s nice that Nathan feels his body is in a good place - I’m sure five wickets helps that cause for him. All the confidence is good. I’m sure we’ll see more of Steve Smith in the future. He’ll just have to wait his turn at the moment,’ Nielsen added.

Both Hauritz and Smith have sought the guidance of spin legend Shane Warne in recent days, and the advice seems to have worked wonders for the NSW duo. (ANI)