Shane Watson aside, the Australian Cricket Team for South Africa is as it should be.
The selectors have been consistent. They have signalled they still want Shane Watson… and I get it. It’s the wrong call, but I get it.
Whether he plays at six and bowls/doesn’t bowl, or at three and bowls/doesn’t bowl, the selectors feel they are covered by having the versatility Watson provides.
James Faulkner is doing himself plenty of favours in the ODI series. His stocks have gone up a notch.
It’s hard to imagine Alex Doolan getting given a chance at batting three right away. Watson might stay there, or Shaun Marsh could take the spot.
Doolan has obvious talents. But Philander, Steyn and Morkel would be a very tough test for the kid, who hasn’t played a Test yet.
So Watson could bat three and Faulkner could bat six, and poor old George gets the short end of the stick!
All the other lads have done very well of late. Shaun Marsh might consider himself somewhat fortunate. He has pedigree, but little recent Test or first-class performances to speak of.
Still, three is a specialist spot in the batting order and if he plays there, Watson will drop to 6. Doolan will still get the experience of touring whether he plays or not.
Pattinson and Bird are flagged additions. The latter has a lot to prove.
Both are insurance for the big three, Johnson, Siddle and Harris, and quite good insurance at that. Fire and forensics.
All in all, the choices aren’t bad at all. The Selectors have shown a clear path for everyone to follow. Youth and experience, with the accent on mature, seasoned professionals.
I just hope the captain and the lads act accordingly on the park and off.
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