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Steve Waugh’s famous ice-cool demeanour is ready to wash off on Australia’s Test team as they prepare for a brutal campaign.
Michael Clarke’s men will battle No.1-ranked South Africa in a three-match series starting on November 9, followed by 17 more Tests over 14 months against all but one of the game’s top-six sides.
Sri Lanka at home await after the Proteas, then Australia face a draining four-game series in India during March and April before an unprecedented 10 Ashes Tests against old foes England ending with the New Year’s clash in Sydney in 2014.
Waugh said on Thursday he’d be keen to visit the Australian dressing room over the summer after Clarke said at the start of the week he’d open the doors to former players to pass on their experience and improve camaraderie in the camp.
“It’s a good idea,” said Waugh, who racked up 10,927 runs in a record 168 Tests.
“I think it’s always been open to ex-players but he’s obviously embracing that which is good.”
Waugh said his style would mirror his experience with Australia’s Olympic team in Beijing and London, especially with some of the more-inexperienced players such as David Warner, James Pattinson, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.
“I don’t think there’s a lot you can say before a Test match or during a Test match,” he said.
“It’s more about being a calming influence.
“I’d see it as similar to the role I had at the Olympics as an athlete liaison – it’s about passing on some experience when required, observing … and just reassuring people that things are going to be OK when they’re under stress or duress or feel a bit pressured.
“I’m happy to be involved if Michael wants me there and I’d certainly put my hand up.”
Waugh is a fan of South African-born coach Mickey Arthur, who has guided the team to seven Test wins, one draw and one loss since his appointment in November 2011 and has a huge opportunity to lift Australia back to the top of the rankings.
“He was the best man for the job,” said Waugh.
“I interviewed him as part of the Argus Review (into Australian cricket restructure in 2011) and I was very impressed by him and his man-management skills.
“The true test for all of the Australian team and staff is coming up. They’ve got South Africa at home, India away and the Ashes. We’ve got a really tough 12 months or so.
“We can sit back after that and we can pass a fairer judgment on all of the people involved.”
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