Symonds Selected in Test Squad
Friday, February 20 2004
The post-Waugh Test era officially began today, with Andrew Symonds and Wade Seccombe surprising selections in the Australian squad for the Test match leg of a grueling Sri Lankan tour.
Symonds, a key player in the Australian One-Day Squad over the past 12 months, fended off a challenge from youngster Michael Clarke for the final batting place.
Martin Love's non-selection suggests his promising international career enters the crossroads.
Darren Lehmann will likely bat at number 5 in the Test side as expected following his distinguishing return to form over the past 2 days.
Michael Kasprowicz and Brad Williams gained the remaining fast bowlers places in the squad ahead of a host of others including Nathan Bracken and Andy Bichel.
The resurrection of Shane Warne took another step in the right direction today following his selection to partner Stuart MacGill in the squad.
Since his return from suspension, Warne has done enough to suggest he has lost little of his past guile.
Glenn McGrath was not considered for the squad. Head of the national selection panel (NSP) Trevor Hohns also spoke of the compelling cases for the inclusion of Bichel, Bracken, Clarke, Matthew Elliott and Brad Hodge.
Wade Seccombe takes the place as reserve keeper in the squad - the first time the Australians have opted for a specialist since the Ashes tour of 2001 where Seccombe was able to enhance his international case.
The tour signals Ricky Ponting's first Test tour in charge of the squad. Adam Gilchrist returns to the deputy position.
The full squad is:
Ricky Ponting ©
Adam Gilchrist (vc)
Justin Langer
Matthew Hayden
Damien Martyn
Darren Lehmann
Simon Katich
Andrew Symonds
Wade Seccombe
Shane Warne
Michael Kasprowicz
Brett Lee
Jason Gillespie
Brad Williams
Stuart MacGill.
Brad Hogg, Michael Bevan, Ian Harvey and Michael Clarke will return home at the completion of the one-day international fixtures.
Posted by Andre
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