George Bailey will make his Test debut in the opening Ashes 2013-14 clash against England next week while Mitchell Johnson returns to Australia's pace attack , selectors said on Tuesday.
Australian captain Michael Clarke has raised doubts over the Decision Review System (DRS), which the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been opposing from the very beginning, saying the controversial technology should not be used if it isn't perfect as it can "distort the process".
Ageing off-spinner Graeme Swann insisted on Monday that England are not too old to defend the Ashes, saying the team's mix of youth and experience is an asset.
Confident captain Michael Clarke said Monday there will be no surprises in Australia's team for the first Ashes Test with players in such good form they were "no brainer" selections.
England wicketkeeper Matt Prior is set to miss the final warm-up game due to a calf injury against Australia Invitational XI starting November 13.
Australian Ashes hopefuls Usman Khawaja and Phil Hughes were Monday withdrawn from the Cricket Australia Invitational XI to play England in the tourists' final warm-up match before the Test series starts next week.
Australian all-rounder Shane Watson struggled for form during the first three Tests of the Ashes 2013 series played in England. But with a fine century in the final Test at The Oval, he made a welcome return to form.
Kevin Pietersen’s knee injury flared up yet again as he remains doubtful for the first Ashes Test starting November 21. While the rest of the England squad flew to Sydney for a four-day game an Invitational XI side, Pietersen headed to Melbourne to undergo scans and treatment.
Wicketkeeper Matt Prior sent an injury scare through the England camp as the tourists drew their rain-marred match against Australia A in Hobart on Saturday.
England’s Joe Root showcased fine technique and temperament to essay a fine half century against Australia A in their second tour game played at Hobart. On the final day of the tour game, Root was extremely harsh on anything that was short by pulling and cutting bowlers to the boundary boards with ease. Australia A’s...