Aussies to attack Monty

Australian vice-captain Adam Gilchrist has warned England spinner Monty Panesar that the Aussie batsmen will look to get after him right from the start of the Ashes series.

Panesar took 17 wickets at an average of 30.29 in England’s recent Test series against Pakistan with coach Duncan Fletcher calling him the best finger spinner in world cricket.

Gilchrist has admitted that he’s been impressed by what he’s seen of Panesar.

“He’s a terrific young bowler, a terrific young character and has an obvious passion for the game and he’ll add a real flavour and touch to this series,” said Gilchrist.

“Like any new spinner we haven’t seen before we’ll try to get on top of him before he gets on top of us but a lot of that will be dictated by the conditions and the match scenario.

Simon Katich who is looking to force his way back into the Test team has also been impressed by Panesar but unlike Gilchrist, Katich has had the opportunity to face Panesar.

I faced him last year on the Ashes tour and I was impressed,” said Katich.

“Monty is a bowler who tries to give you a bit of air. He does try and turn it. ”

“He is bowling genuine wicket-taking balls and knocking good players over.”

The Ashes series starts on 23rd November with the first Test at The Gabba in Brisbane.