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Victoria captain Cameron White has a simple message for Australia’s cricket selectors: wicketkeeper Matthew Wade is ready.
Test gloveman Brad Haddin had the chance in Johannesburg (Monday night AEDT) to make a big score in the second Test against South Africa and help keep his spot in the side.
But for White, the equation is a lot more straightforward.
“‘Wadey’, everyone knows what he’s done and how good a player he is,” White said on Monday.
“He’s ready. Get him in there.”
Australia host a two-Test series against New Zealand starting in Brisbane on December 1, with a squad expected to be named later this week.
The 23-year-old Wade has scored 278 runs at 55.60 in three Sheffield Shield matches this season and made his Twenty20 International debut in Cape Town last month.
White says Wade and Victoria pace bowler James Pattinson are not knocking on the door of Test selection; they’re kicking it down.
Both have been named in the Australia A squad for the four-day game against New Zealand starting on Thursday at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field.
“Everyone in that side is a good chance to play for Australia,” White said.
“I would assume `Wadey’ and `Patto’ are probably kicking it down more so than anyone. It’s actually nearly open for them I reckon.
“They’re both ready to play for Australia, peaking at the right time.
“I thought James bowled really well the other night. He’s in good form and ready to go.”
Pattinson has taken nine wickets at 24.00 in his two Shield appearances this season.
The 21-year-old has international experience at T20 and one-day level but Pattinson is by no means the only stand-out quick in the Australia A lineup.
Former Test swing bowler Ben Hilfenhaus, young left-armer Mitchell Starc and the Shield’s leading wicket-taker Ben Cutting are also pushing claims for national selection.
White, who played four Tests in 2008, had been hoping to force his own way into the Australia A squad.
But after scoring 32 and two not out against Tasmania, White missed last week’s game against Western Australia because of a shoulder injury.
“I should have had a few more hits,” White said.
“It might have helped in Australia A selection.
“I’m disappointed to miss that.”
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